Students in many rural areas don't have access to top-level education in STEM areas (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math).  The USDA is hosting a series of listening sessions around the country to determine how to address the shorages.  Of course, distance learning facilities could bring more STEM curriculum to rural students, but the Ag Secretary's Assistant for Rural Development Ann Hazelett said,

 

"Related to the need for that curriculum is certainly, in many cases, is also a need for that high-speed internet connection that can help connect rural students to that same high quality educational experience that their urban peers may have an immediate access to."

 

So, getting high-speed interent to rural areas could help in bringing to students in rural communities better technical education and that could help in,

"Shaping that workforce for the future and shaping opportunities in these communities."

For more information on the USDA listening sessions, check out the USDA's Website.

 

 

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