Distance learning grant

The Department of Agriculture Rural Utilities Service awarded $410,876 to Southern Local School BD on September 23, 2025, under the Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grants program (CFDA 10.855) to support distance learning capabilities serving rural areas.

Southern Local School BD, a public school district in Racine, Ohio, will deploy the funding to improve the use of telecommunications, computer networks, and related advanced technologies to deliver educational benefits through distance learning to residents of rural areas. The program's purpose is to encourage and improve distance learning and telemedicine projects in rural communities.

The award period runs from September 23, 2025, through September 23, 2027. Performance takes place in Racine, OH 45771. The assistance type is a Project Grant with $410,876 obligated. The standard project period under this program is three years; applications are competitively selected based on specified scoring criteria and economic feasibility determinations by RUS. Award recipients must demonstrate that funds are expended for approved purposes and pass through the benefit of financial assistance to rural entities or residents.