Black Belt schools get increased digital access through two new spaces

For years, the Black Belt region has faced critical challenges, including higher poverty rates and limited access to quality education and technology.

But a pair of new projects is hoping to fight against that trend.

Two education centers in Alabama’s Black Belt will now have more access to digital resources after partnering with Ed Farm, an organization focused on creating more STEM opportunities across the state.

Robert C. Hatch High School

Ed Farm’s strategic investment will include a Connected Rural Classroom in Perry County.

The 800-square-foot tech-enabled space facilitates high-quality remote instruction and optimized learning for all 452 students at R.C. Hatch High School.

This initiative is expected to address geographical limitations and teacher shortages by promoting the sharing of expertise across districts.

Danish Kurani, architect of the space, spoke to a small crowd in the room during a ribbon-cutting ceremony held May 9. You can watch that full presentation, which includes a demonstration with current students of the school, on the Ed Farm YouTube page.

Hale County College + Career Academy

Ed Farm also introduced a space called the The Portal, located in Greensboro.

The 1,248-square-foot hub will offer K-12 students access to:

• A fabrication lab
• Podcast room
• MacBooks and iPads
• Collaboration spaces
• Audio/video labs

This initiative tackles the digital skills gap, preparing students for future careers and hosting professional learning for teachers.

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