KBJR Channel 6 reports…

RAMS sent out a survey to districts across Northern Minnesota to determine how many families were lacking much-needed internet service.

The pandemic is forcing many to now learn from home which is proving to be an issue for families in rural communities.

Steve Giorgi, Executive Director of RAMS said there are many solutions that could help expand the access that they are researching.

“We’re getting student’s addresses. We’re able to plot that on a map and try to look at, can we place some towers, or are there existing towers in a geographical area where we can provide some wireless broadband connection?” said Giorgi.

RAMS is encouraging families to conduct a speed test for their internet connection ahead of the school year.

You can find more information on speed tests or check your connection here.

RAMS was an early adopter and proponent of the statewide speed testing – now everyone in Minnesota is encouraged to take the broadband speed test.