Frankfort launches internet access program for FIS students

City of Frankfort leaders, joined by officials from Frankfort Independent Schools, the Kentucky Capital Development Corporation and the Frankfort Plant Board, today officially kicked off a partnership program to provide internet access for FIS students outside of school. The event was held at the Kings Center in South Frankfort.

“We’re fortunate in our community to have many dedicated organizations who work together for the advancement of our youth. This is no exception,” said Frankfort Mayor Bill May. “The city is pleased to be a part of this project, and we look forward to seeing great progress from students.”

More than a year in the making, the program aims to close the digital divide by providing at-home internet access to students who did not have that capability in order to better prepare them for school and the workplace.

”Technology is a driving force in education in the 21st century,”said FIS Superintendent Dr. Houston Barber. “When students donot have internet access at home, it puts them at a disadvantage. Our goal is to try to level the playing field to give all of our students the opportunities they need to succeed in life and work.”

Funding for the project is being provided by a$200,000 grant from the city that will be administered through the Kentucky Capital Development Corporation. The grant will fund $80,000 in technology upgrades in the school district and $60,000 to market the city and school district. The modem installation portion of the project will also receive $60,000.

“Education, workforce and economic development go hand in hand,” said KCDC President Terri Bradshaw. “The partners in this project understand the value of education to the prosperity of the community.We view this as an investment in our future workforce.”

The Frankfort Plant Board completed installing hot spots for wireless internet access at the Kings Center, F.D. Wilkinson Gym, and the Walter Todd Community Center last month and has now begun in-home modem installations.

”As this community’s municipal utility, it is important that we partner with local city, business and education leaders to improve opportunities for success when we can,” said FPB Interim General Manager David Denton, CPA. “We see first-hand how technology is changing the way we do business in this world, and it plays a vital role in educating our students. We’re proud we could be a part of this.”