Rhoades Presents Schuylkill IU 29 With $1.1 Million Grant

MAR LIN – Senator James J. Rhoades (R-29) today presented officials from the Schuylkill County Intermediate Unit 29 and with a check for over $1.1 million to fund technology projects in Schuylkill, Carbon, Columbia, Dauphin, Lehigh and Schuylkill Counties.

The funding was is part of a $10 million initiative, known as E-Fund, which was paid for by the state's telecommunications industry to enhance the broadband capability of schools various regions and develop the technological infrastructure to encourage opportunities for economic growth.

"Since 1990, I have worked with educators, technology leaders, telecommunications providers and policy makers to chart a course for distance education in Pennsylvania," said Rhoades. "With this new infrastructure, our schools could share classes and expand offerings to students who would otherwise be isolated from these opportunities by geography."

The funding allowed for the purchase of various services including hardware, technical assistance and distance education resources. Grant recipients were required to provide connectivity to large geographic areas with low speed or no connectivity, form consortiums to leverage costs and services or provide distance learning resources ad well planned professional development.

"I believe that dedication to technology is key to meeting the demands of our changing economy, of our society, and of the schools and businesses," added Rhoades. "I am pleased that new technologies and resources are now available to IU 29 and our schools in Carbon, Columbia, Dauphin, Lehigh and Schuylkill counties."