Community Technology Grant Possible
School Superintendent Steve Long has applied for a $25,000 Telecommunications Infrastructure Fund (TIF) Grant for Collaborative Community Networks. The grants are intended to involve a broad range of community residents and organizations in a multi-purpose and community-based network. Ten percent in community matching funds is required if the grant is approved. The grant, if approved, could have a major impact on the community’s use of computers and other related technology.
The grant application proposes technology centers that would use volunteer staff and other consultants to provide training, technical assistance, continuing education and workforce development. These centers would be equipped with high-speed internet access, laptop work stations, desktop workstations, printers, scanners, digital cameras and high-speed projectors. The centers would be available, without charge, to everyone in the community.
In addition, over the two years of the grant period, four wireless labs would be created, which would be internet accessible by using wireless satellites at each location. The application proposes that these labs be located in the community center, senior citizens building, St. Lawrence Hall, and the school.
Other aspects of the grant application are too lengthy to be covered here, but a copy of the application may be obtained at the school administration office. Long should know later this month whether the grant has been approved.