NASHVILLE, Tenn., Nov. 20, 2023 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Tennessee State Director Arlisa Armstrong today announced that the department will invest more than $2.6 million to improve access to distance learning and telemedicine in rural Tennessee.
“Good education and job training shouldn’t depend on your zip code. We work with rural communities to expand schools and support learning opportunities through Distance Learning and Telemedicine grants,” Armstrong said. “We are excited to be partnering with four local rural school systems to give students an opportunity to study and take classes virtually, without leaving their hometown. When rural people can be prosperous in their hometowns, it builds stability for the whole community.”
Background: Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grants
Today’s investments are being funded through USDA’s Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) program. This program helps fund distance learning and telemedicine services in rural areas to increase access to education, training and health care resources that are otherwise limited or unavailable.
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Under the Biden-Harris Administration, Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, tribal and high-poverty areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.