Apple is participating in the Obama administration's ConnectED program and will donate $100 million in grants as part of the effort, which will bring iDevices to schools in the U.S.
The ConnectED program was announced in June 2013 and perseveres to provide reliable Internet access to 99 percent students in the U.S. by 2017. The initiative also aims to deploy federal funds to promote the use of technology in education.
Apple pledged to the cause earlier in January this year and has now launched a microsite, as a part of the education-oriented ConnectED initiative. The program targets schools which have negligible access to technology for education, as well as dependable Internet access.
"Inspired by the students, teachers, and administrators at the 114 schools we're partnering with for ConnectED," tweeted Apple CEO Tim Cook.
iPad holds nearly 90 percent of the education sector as revealed by Cook in the company's Financial Conference Call. The popularity of the tablet is unparalleled and as part of the ConnectED program, Apple will ensure that the money will be divided between 114 schools in 29 U.S. states.
"As part of our mission, we're joining President Obama in support of the ConnectED initiative by committing our products, our knowledge, and our passion for learning to 114 schools across the country," says Apple on its microsite. "It's an important first step and a bold vision for a richer, more diverse, and more inclusive future."
The grant will look to provide benefits and technology support to minorities and students who are at a disadvantage. Apple reveals that nearly 92 percent of the students from its partner schools are of Black, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, and Alaskan Native heritage.
As part of the initiative, Apple will provide partnering schools with iPads for every student. Moreover, all the teachers and the administrator will also receive a Mac and an iPad. Apple will also provide an Apple TV for each classroom, with an aim of promoting creativity and "potential of all the world's future inventors, future dreamers, and future leaders."
Apple is not the only one pledging support to the initiative. Adobe and Microsoft have also pledged to provide discounted or free software for the ConnectED program.
