GALLATIN, Tenn. (WTVF) — Sumner County Schools announced that Facebook is donating $60,000 to the district to help provide equipment that will improve internet connectivity for students.
The district announced details on Monday, saying the grant will be used to help “close the digital divide” in rural areas in the county. The money will go towards buying Wi-Fi hotspots, adaptors and expanders.
“The pandemic has shown us that we need to expand our technology reach and our capacity for digital learning. It’s critical that Sumner County students have access to the Internet even in areas where service is not provided,” Sumner County Schools Assistant Director for Information Services Chris Brown said. “Giving rural areas access to the Internet is vital to ensure these students do not fall behind. We are grateful to Facebook for helping us in our efforts.”
Sumner County Schools has provided free internet access at specific locations throughout the county since April 2020. The grant from Facebook will help support those continued efforts.
"We are thrilled to support students in Sumner County Schools with technology that improves Internet connectivity to expand their opportunities to learn, grow and explore," said Katie Comer, Community Development Regional Manager for Facebook. "Gallatin is our home, and we are committed to playing a positive role and investing in the community’s long-term vitality."
In August 2020, Facebook announced plans to build an $800 million data center in Gallatin.
