Fairmont State University is a member of West Virginia Kids Connect, a wifi access initiative designed to help students stay connected during the global COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. Kids Connect supports learning outside of school hours with hotspots located in parking lots of public schools, higher education institutions, libraries and state parks.

Since the launch of the program, more than 1,000 wireless hotspots have been established across West Virginia to support the initiative. Local students may access the Fairmont State hotspot in the large parking lot with Kids Connect signage directly past the Frank and Jane Gabor West Virginia Folklife Center.

“Education is the key that unlocks so many of life’s opportunities,” Mirta M. Martin, president of Fairmont State University, said. “But for so many West Virginia students, lack of access to reliable wifi and internet service keeps those doors closed. West Virginia Kids Connect keeps our children connected and engaged and keeps their dreams alive.”

The internet service is available for public usage. However, all visitors must remain in vehicles while using the wifi network. Visitors are not permitted to access public areas on campus including dining areas, restrooms or other facilities. The free wireless internet service is available every day from 8 a.m. – 10 p.m., and is also available for usage on holidays.

To connect to the wireless network, users will select the WVKidsConnect option. Once the network has been selected, users will open an Internet browser session. Users will then be prompted to read and accept the Acceptable Use message. Lastly, users will check the consent box and click the “Continue to Internet” tab.

Kids Connect technical support is available by calling 866-K12-WIFI (866-512-9464).