Free Wireless Internet Access...

Paul Vranish, the district's superintendent, initiated the Free Wireless Internet Access project back in October of 2004. Since then, technology department has connected over 300 residential homes, local businesses, and organizations in Tornillo, Fabens, Fort Hancock, Clint, and San Elizario to the Tornillo ISD wireless network. Free internet access is offered to any community member who lives within thirteen miles from the high school.

How does it work?

Tornillo ISD has two towers, one located next to the Tornillo Wellness Center, and the other behind Tornillo High School. These towers have radio antennas that can send signals to homes up to a distance of 11 miles.

  1. In order to receive the signal from the towers, a pre-configured antenna needs to be installed at your place, similar to installing a satellite dish, along with the necessary cabling that will run to your computer room.
  2. That’s it!

How much does it cost?

The initial cost for the equipment is $275.00. This includes antenna, bridge, cabling, configuration, and site installation. There are no monthly access fees thereafter. Tornillo ISD employees may arrange for payroll deduction payment plan on the initial equipment cost.

In rare cases, price is subject to change depending on location, equipment required, and or any adjustment necessary for the proper installation of your wireless internet. You will be notifed prior to installation if such case exists.

How do I get my FREE internet access?

  1. Contact Sandra Marin at 765-3000 (Central Office) to ask if we are accepting new customers.
  2. If we are accepting new customers – you will need to…
    • Sign up to our Free Internet Waiting List – information such as your name, home address, contact information will need to be collected. You will also need to read and sign the Tornillo ISD Internet Acceptable Use Policy.
    • Pay a one-time equipment purchase fee of $275. The equipment purchase fee includes antenna, bridge, cabling, configuration, and complete on-site installation. There is no monthly access fee afterwards. District employees may ask for payroll deduction payment plans with Lupe Juarez in Payroll department.
    • After you have been added to the waiting list, please allow our technician 2-3 weeks for your on-site installation. In some cases, it may take longer during school work-load peak times.

History

October 2004
Two self-supported towers are installed in Tornillo. One located next to the Tornillo Wellness Center and the other behind the high school. The school district’s seven school board members are the first to experience the high speed internet through the district’s wireless network.

July 2006
Wireless towers were rebuilt in order to sustain the strong winds and weather conditions. Wireless antennas on the towers have been upgraded in order to send stronger signals to homes reaching up to 12 miles outside of Tornillo.

August 2006
100 users are connected to Tornillo's wireless network. New users waiting list continues to grow. Free internet is expanded and offered to community members in neighboring towns like Fabens, Clint, and San Elizario.

Important Information

  • Acceptable Use Policy
  • Troubleshooting Guide (Coming soon)