Range companies, including RT offers free internet to students

As part of its continued response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Range Companies – Range Telephone Cooperative, Inc., RT Communications, Inc., and Dubois Telephone Exchange, Inc. – are coordinating with school districts in their subscriber areas to identify students who have a need for internet service in order to continue their education at home.

The Range Companies are providing free installation and internet service to those K-12 and college student’s households through June 12, 2020.

“We understand remote learning is necessary to help slow the spread of the virus. This is our opportunity to support the communities we serve, especially the students, during this difficult time,” said Rob Johnstone, CEO of Range. “Providing internet service for students so they can continue their education is an important step we are taking to ensure successful learning at home.”

Technicians are beginning to work on installations while following all health and safety measures. We hope to complete all service requests as soon as possible over the next few weeks. If you have a student in your household that needs internet service, please contact your school administration. CONNECTED

Also in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the challenges that many Americans will face in the coming months, Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai recently announced the Keep Americans Connected Initiative. This ensures that Americans do not lose their broadband or telephone connectivity as a result of these exceptional circumstances, Pai specifically asked broadband and telephone service providers, and trade associations, to take the Pledge. The Range Companies are among those service providers who have pledged to Keep Americans Connected.

In conjuncture with The Keep Americans Connected Pledge, for the next 60 days, the Range Companies will:

•Not terminate service to any residential or small business customers because of their inability to pay their bills.

•Waive any late fees; and

•Open its Wi-Fi hotspots.