Borderlink program receives grant from USDA

The Borderlink pilot program flipped the switch as it went online in several high schools in the valley, earlier this year.

The program provides internet for students who otherwise can’t afford it, helping them with their homework. Thanks to a grant of over $800,000 from the USDA, the program will now be in all school districts in the county.

ICOE County Superintendent of Schools, Todd Finnell said, “What this means is a rapid expansion of the border link system in the county. And so these grants have a one-year shelf life. So we have 8 communities to light up in a one year span. Which is wonderful. There’s a lot of work to be done. But it’s a wonderful opportunity.”

ICOE will give school districts the option on how they can best use the program for their students. Finnell said, “So really it’s about helping the local districts understand how they can take advantage of the infrastructure. Where they then localize it to their context of what’s best for kids in their community.”

One valley native saw the potential in the program. USDA Community Programs Specialist, Daniel Cardona said, “Growing up in this area, driving around this area, I know the impact that these funds could make. So it was just more of an incentive for me to help them out through the process so they can access this funding that was available.”

Not only is Borderlink closing the homework gap but eventually first responders will be able to use it as well. Cardona said, “Through this network, these agencies are gonna be able to innovate some new ideas and new approaches in addressing the opioid issues that are prevalent here in the county.”

By this time next year, ICOE hopes to have the Borderlink program operational across the valley.