DLT grants - substance use disorder - educational

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Utilities Service awarded a $1,000,000 Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) Grant to the Jefferson Area Local School District in Jefferson, OH. The grant funding will be used to acquire telecommunications-enabled equipment and infrastructure to enhance distance learning and telemedicine services for the rural community. The DLT Grant program (CFDA 10.855) aims to improve access to education, training, and healthcare in rural areas through advanced technologies. The Jefferson Area Local School District plans to utilize the grant to deliver K-12 education services and support substance use disorder treatment initiatives via telecommunications and computer networks. The 2-year project will commence on February 1, 2024 and is expected to be completed by February 1, 2026. The school district has also received multiple sub-awards through the Ohio Department of Education to fund various educational programs, special education services, and COVID-19 relief efforts.