TV learning coming to Central Illinois

Posted on May 21, 2020
COVID-19 has changed the ways students learn, maybe beyond the current pandemic (WJBC file photo).

By A.J. Harris

BLOOMINGTON – The Regional Office of Education has announced plans to continue remote learning, bringing the initiative to television.

Projected to be ready to air later in the summer, the new channel, called WTVP REMOTE, is a joint venture between the ROE, PBS affiliate WTVP, and other educational entities, and will be devoted solely to remote learning.

According to a press release, WTVP REMOTE has the potential to reach more than 200,000 households in a 20-county region of Central Illinois.

Regional Superintendent of Schools Mark Jontry says the channel will provide valuable programming to students and families throughout the region, not only during the current pandemic but for future natural disasters or school disruptions.

Jontry adds WTVP REMOTE will be especially important to the thousands of low-income households and rural residents across the region who may not have reliable access to high-speed internet, cable TV service, or a computer.

The channel, broadcasting at 47.5, will be ready for the 2020-2021 school year.

A.J. Harris can be reached at [email protected]

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