Calix Inc. Partners with ALLO Communications to Launch Smart Schools Initiative

On October 17, 2025, Calix Inc. (NYSE: CALX) announced a significant collaboration with ALLO Communications, introducing the Smart Schools initiative. This program aims to provide secure community Wi-Fi for Lincoln Public School (LPS) students in grades 6-12, promoting digital equity and extending educational opportunities beyond traditional classroom settings. The launch event was attended by notable figures including ALLO CEO Brad Moline and Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen, who gathered at Lincoln High School to celebrate this groundbreaking initiative.

The Smart Schools initiative is designed to address the "homework gap," a pressing issue affecting students who lack reliable internet access at home. By leveraging Calix's SmartTown® for Education technology, ALLO is providing students with access to over 43,000 SmartTown Wi-Fi access points throughout public spaces such as libraries, parks, and community centers. Each LPS student in the targeted grades will receive a Google Chromebook, with the option to enroll in the Smart Schools program that offers a secure online learning experience.

The Smart Schools initiative is built on the robust Calix Broadband Platform and includes several key features aimed at enhancing educational experiences:

This launch is the latest achievement in a 16-year partnership between ALLO and Calix, characterized by a commitment to community impact and technological innovation. ALLO was the first broadband service provider to deploy SmartTown, a concept that emerged from discussions between Moline and Calix CEO Michael Weening in 2022. The partnership has since evolved, including a successful trial of 50G PON technology in Lincoln, showcasing the scalability and potential for enhanced subscriber experiences.

Brad Moline emphasized the importance of education in fostering healthy communities, stating, “Smart Schools, built on proven Calix SmartTown infrastructure, delivers the secure, high-performance online experiences students need to keep learning after the bell.” He expressed pride in how their initial vision has transformed into a nationwide movement aimed at ensuring all students have access to reliable internet for their educational needs.

Michael Weening echoed this sentiment, stating, “The Calix team is proud to stand beside Brad and ALLO as they deliver Smart Schools in Lincoln, Nebraska, and soon, across their footprint.” He highlighted the initiative as a testament to their commitment to enriching lives through innovative broadband solutions.

ALLO Communications plans to expand the Smart Schools initiative throughout Nebraska, Arizona, Colorado, and Missouri, signaling a broader commitment to advancing digital equity and supporting community welfare. The program is designed to foster trust within local communities, ensuring that students have the resources necessary to succeed in their educational pursuits.

As Calix continues to lead in broadband technology, the Smart Schools initiative represents a pivotal step towards bridging the digital divide, transforming how education is accessed and experienced in communities across the United States.