Published: December 04, 2006 10:22 pm         

Greenbrier schools get grant to upgrade Internet access systems

LEWISBURG — Greenbrier County schools have been awarded more than $500,000 in a grant for upgrading their Internet access systems, according to a press release from Sen. Jay Rockefeller’s office

Rockefeller co-authored the E-Rate program, which provides discounts on telecommunications services to schools and libraries.

“This program (E-Rate) allows West Virginians to stay up-to-date with the current technologies — improving their access and, in the process, strengthening their skills,” Rockefeller said. “Every one in West Virginia deserves access to the enormous opportunities that are available on the Web.”

Vicki Cline, director of technology, testing and textbooks for Greenbrier County, said the involved process began with the county’s application last February. Apart from faster Internet service, the grant will also allow the county’s 14 schools the opportunity to be linked together.

“This is a grant for point to point fiber access,” Cline said Monday. “It will create a wide area of networking so that all 14 schools in the county can share resources.”

Cline said the $522,661 grant follows the state and county’s strategic plan to allow students to be globally competitive, a comment echoed by Superintendent John Curry.

“I am very pleased and excited about this news,” Curry said Monday. “Students and teachers recognize the importance technology plays in education. This funding will provide the infrastructure necessary to support the very highest levels of 21st Century teaching and learning. As a result, Greenbrier County students will be much more competitive in the global workplace.”

Since the E-rate program began, West Virginia has received nearly $80 million in funding.