Thousands of the nation’s smaller school districts struggle to get even the most basic Internet services, making it difficult to take advantage of the wealth of classroom technology that’s giving students more options for how, what, and when they learn.

A new three-part series by Education Week looks at the hurdles to classroom connectivity, and what progress is being made on the federal E-rate program to bring better Internet services to schools, students, and families in rural communities.

Reporter Benjamin Herold talks with EWA Radio about why the feds’ haven’t done more to crack down on Internet providers that charge schools outrageously high fees, examples of classroom technology that have measurably improved learning, and tips for reporters who want to make the most of their campus visits.