There was talk that Apple would announce a new education initiative this week. However, the company is instead emphasizing its participation in the US ConnectED program. Apple CEO Tim Cook appeared in a pre-recorded segment on Good Morning America today and discussed this with co-anchor Robin Roberts.
“I think technology has to be a key part [of education] and that’s why we’re here, ” Cook said. “Too many times today kids aren’t given the right for a great public education and this isn’t right. It’s not fair … I wouldn’t be where I am today without a great public education.”
According to Apple’s ConnectED website, as part of its participation in President Barack Obama’s ConnectED technology in education program, the company is giving its latest hardware to 114 schools across the U.S.
The ConnectED initiative is designed to, within four years, connect 99% of America’s students to next-generation broadband and high-speed wireless in their schools and libraries. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and companies like Apple, Microsoft, Sprint, and Verizon have collectively pledged to connect more than 20 million more students.
