General
What is the Kids Connect Initiative?
The Kids Connect Initiative is designed to support the learning needs of children during time outside of school hours by providing over 1,000 wireless hotspots across West Virginia. These hotspots will be located in parking lots at public schools, higher education institutions, libraries and state parks, allowing students online access to their school assignments.
How do I connect?
- Locate the wireless/WiFi connections on your device and select WVKidsConnect
- Open an Internet browser session (i.e., Chrome, Safari, Firefox)
- Read and accept the Acceptable Use message
- Check the consent box
- Click the "Continue to Internet" tab
Where do I connect?
There are over 950 wireless connection points across West Virginia at K-12 schools, county libraries, colleges and universities, and state parks. A complete map of all locations is available at https://wvde.us/potential-wifi-access-locations/
You can also call the Kids Connect help desk at 866-K12-WIFI (866-512-9434) to find the closest location with access to the Kids Connect network.
Who do I call for help?
Please call the Kids Connect help desk at 866-K12-WIFI (866-512-9434)).
How will the Wi-Fi coverage area be marked?
Each location will have its own signage to designate the location of the Kids Connect wireless network. You can also look for the Kids Connect logo to assist you in finding the correct location for network access.
Is there a limit to the number of users in a parking lot?
There is no physical limitation to the number of users, other than the number of space available in the parking lot, but all users share the same wireless antenna. As the number of users increase, network speed may decrease.
What are the hours of operation?
The Kids Connect Wi-Fi will be operational seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m.
Will security be provided? How will the state keep these locations safe?
Each location has their own security arrangements.
Does a parent have to be present with a child under 18?
Yes, either a parent or an authorized adult.
Do you have to be in a car, or can you walk there and sit outside?
Because of the safety and security concerns, all users of the Kids Connect network should be in a vehicle occupied by a parent or authorized adult.
Is there a limit on how long I can remain logged in?
There is no limit, beyond that imposed by the operating hours of the Kids Connect network and availability hours of the parking area.
Will the Wi-Fi work in bad weather, like heavy rain or snow?
Yes
How will I know if there is an outage and the Wi-Fi is unavailable?
Please call the Kids Connect help desk at 866-K12-WIFI (866-512-9434). They can tell you if there is a problem with the wireless network at that location. If so, they can tell you the closest location with access to the Kids Connect network.
Elementary Student
I don't have a car but I can walk to the parking lot. Is that OK?
No. Because of the safety and security concerns, all users of the Kids Connect network should be in a vehicle occupied by a parent or authorized adult.
Does my parent need to drive me?
Either your parent or an adult designated by your parents should drive you to the Kids Connect location.
Do I have to be in a car?
Yes, for your safety and security.
I can't get Wi-Fi in the parking lot. What should I do?
Please call the Kids Connect help desk at 866-K12-WIFI (866-512-9434). They can tell you if there is a problem with the wireless network at that location. If so, they can tell you the closest location with access to the Kids Connect network.
The Wi-Fi in the parking lot is slow. What should I do?
Please call the Kids Connect help desk at 866-K12-WIFI (866-512-9434). They can tell you if there is a problem with the wireless network at that location. If so, they can tell you the closest location with access to the Kids Connect network.Also, speed of the network will depend on how many users access it at that location, so trying a different location that has fewer users may provide faster connectivity.
K-12 Parent
How will we know we've successfully connected to the Wi-Fi?
You will see the Kids Connect welcome page when you open your Internet browser.
Who do I contact if I can't get my child's device connected?
Please call the Kids Connect help desk at 866-K12-WIFI (866-512-9434).
Who do I contact if the Wi-Fi is slow?
Please call the Kids Connect help desk at 866-K12-WIFI (866-512-9434).
Is there a limit to how often we can use the Kids Connect Wi-Fi?
There is no limit.
My child uses an iPad. Can we use Kids Connect Wi-Fi to update the iPad?
No. The Kids Connect network is not designed for computer or software updates.
I have Wi-Fi at home. Do I need to still take my child to a Kids Connect hotspot?
No. Your home wireless network will provide greater access and faster Internet speeds, but the Kids Connect network is available if your home wireless network becomes unavailable.
I do not live close to a Kids Connect Wi-Fi hotspot. Where else can we go to get internet?
There are many options to connect wirelessly to the Internet, but several charge for this service. Most TV, cable, telephone, and cellular providers offer wireless connectivity for a fee. It is also available at several restaurants, coffee shops, and fast food locations.
High School Student
I'm taking classes at a college, too. Can I use Kids Connect to submit those assignments?
No. The Kids Connect network is limited to K-12 use only.
I need to stream my biology class. Can I use this Wi-Fi to stream a class?
No. The Kids Connect network is not designed for video streaming.
I am working on a group project and need to video chat with my classmates. Can I use Kids Connect to video chat?
No. The Kids Connect network is not designed for video chats or video conferencing.
My teacher posts class videos on YouTube. Can I use this Wi-Fi to watch or download class videos?
No. The Kids Connect network is designed for upload and download of course materials and assignments. It is not designed for online viewing of videos.
I work in the evening and do classwork late at night. Will there be any gates or restrictions?
Each location handles their own physical access and security. Physical access to a Kids Connect hotspot may be limited based on local rules or policies.
College/University Student
My brother/sister in K-12 can use Kids Connect to download/upload assignments. Can I use it too?
Yes. While the Kids Connect network is primarily designed for K-12 students without residential wireless service, it can be used by college and university students who also do not have ready access to wireless Internet for their academic assignments.