When the COVID-19 pandemic hit last Spring, the Ashland Fiber Network (AFN) offered free internet service to students and teachers (K-12 and College) who suddenly found themselves distance learning from home. AFN hooked up and serviced 58 Ashland student and staff households, and 47 of them are still connected as the virus has necessitated extended distancing measures. 

 “With families facing COVID financial hardship, the free AFN offer prevented a lot of difficulty for a significant number of families,” said Steve Mitzel, Ashland School District’s Operations Supervisor. 

To support our community and educational partners connect students and staff together for remote learning during extended closures, the City of Ashland’s Ashland Fiber Network (AFN) is once again offering free broadband internet service to ensure the educational process is available to everyone.

While both the Ashland School District and Southern Oregon University remain limited to distance learning, AFN will provide cable modem service at 30 Mbps for all K-12 & college students and teachers who are not currently (or within the past 30 days) AFN customers.  During this time, activation fees will be waived, and a cable modem will be provided. Installation of service will be dependent upon installer availability and must be located in AFN’s existing Ashland service territory.

“We’re proud to offer this free service to keep students and teachers connected during such an unprecedented and challenging time in their lives. This is an example where local government can provide services to the community through commonly owned infrastructure where residents needs can be prioritized,” said Adam Hanks, Interim City Administrator. 

Interested students, parents, and staff should call AFN at (541) 552-2222 or go to ashlandfiber.net.