Evan Sellers 412 Winston Street Florence, SC 29501 February 7, 2010 Mr.

Larry Jackson, Superintendent 319 South Dargan Street Florence, SC 29560 Dear Mr. Jackson, As a teacher in Florence District One, I am proud of our district's dedication to infusing technology in the classroom. Our schools are well equipped with computers, Smartboards, wireless Internet, and a variety of other technological tools to ensure students success in a digital world. However, there is a disturbing truth that we, as educators, must face. A great many of our students will have no access to the Internet and corresponding technologies the instant they leave their schools. We have worked diligently to bridge the digital divide and provide access to students in the classroom. However, we have seen the rise of digital inequality. According to Hargittai (2003), digital inequality is defined as, A refined understanding of the digital divide that emphasizes a spectrum of inequality across segments of the population depending on differences along several dimensions of technology access and use. As you know, our schools serve students from all socioeconomic backgrounds and many of our students have no way to access the Internet at home. It is important to understand that this puts these students at a disadvantage. "Lacking access to a vital service when a majority in society has such an important service, low and middle-income households find themselves at a severe disadvantage and in a vicious cycle." (Cooper, 2004) Our schools are stressing the use of technology in learning everyday. Yet, some students are left out in the cold when they leave the campus. We must address this problem and look for solutions that allow for all students to access the information super highway. We can start by providing extended hours and transportation for students that need to utilize the computers and Internet at our schools. Likewise, our school district should work closely with the city of Florence, small businesses, and the utility companies to offer solutions to the problem of Internet access. In conclusion, I would like to thank you for your time and your attention to this matter. Our students deserve every opportunity to succeed. Sincerely, Evan Sellers

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