Press Release 7/21/20

PERTH AMBOY – The City of Perth Amboy will be expanding Wi-Fi and hotspot capabilities in an effort to aid families who don’t have access to internet services. View the link to the video announcement from Mayor Wilda Diaz here.

Wi-Fi is already available inside certain buildings; however, places such as the Perth Amboy Public Library and the Brighton Avenue Community Center will also be providing Wi-Fi access around the exterior areas of the buildings. Providing this exterior internet access is critical due to social distancing guidelines that are in place as a result of COVID-19. The city is in the process of renewing Wi-Fi service throughout Washington Park, which would be available in the next few weeks. The City of Perth Amboy is also considering other areas to provide internet capabilities, such as the exterior areas of buildings within the business district.

Adding to the city’s efforts, the Perth Amboy School District has ensured every child in the City of Perth Amboy has received a tablet so that they are able to complete schoolwork. Superintendent of Schools, Dr. David Roman, has also informed the mayor that they are currently working on upgrades to those tablets. The district is also seeking to provide enough hotspots for families who do not already have internet access.

When speaking of the partnership with Perth Amboy Public Schools, Mayor Wilda Diaz commented, “It truly has been a great partnership working with the schools because with the help of the Board of Education we have been able to provide 250,000 meals to students during the pandemic.” Diaz continued, “It’s all about partnership and collaboration.”

Many families have been concerned about protecting their children as they return to school in the fall amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Governor Phil Murphy has announced that the New Jersey Department of Education will be releasing guidance which will allow parents to choose all-remote learning for students. The DOE measure, in conjunction with Perth Amboy expanding internet capabilities, will aid in keeping students and faculty safe.

If you have questions regarding your child’s school sessions or homework access, you are encouraged to contact your child’s principal for clarity.