Facebook donates $60K to Sumner County Schools to improve internet access

GALLATIN, Tenn. (WTVF) – Sumner County Schools announced that Facebook has donated $ 60,000 to the district to help provide equipment to improve students’ internet connectivity.

The district released details Monday, saying the grant will be used to help “close the digital divide” in rural areas in the county. The money will go to buy Wi-Fi hotspots, adapters and extenders.

“The pandemic has shown us that we need to expand our technology reach and digital learning capacity. It is critical for Sumner County students to have access to the Internet, even in areas where service is not provided, says Chris Brown, Sumner County Schools Vice President of Information Services. “Providing Internet access to rural areas is vital to ensure these students are not left behind. We are grateful to Facebook for helping us in our efforts. “

Sumner County Schools have been providing free internet access at select locations throughout the county since April 2020. The grant from Facebook will help support these ongoing efforts.

“We are excited to support students at Sumner County Schools with technology that enhances the Internet connectivity to expand opportunities for learning, growth and discovery,” said Katie Comer, Facebook Community Development Regional Manager. “Gallatin is our home and we are determined to play a positive role and invest in the long-term viability of the community.”

In August 2020, Facebook announces plans to build an $ 800 million data center in Gallatin.