R.C. Hatch High School in Union Springs and Hale County College & Career Academy in Greensboro are two schools in the Black Belt that are benefiting from technology hubs set up by the nonprofit Ed Farm. 

A press release stated that Ed Farm made the effort in order to help address the limited access to technology and education on technology due to the poverty that these rural areas experience. 

“When Ed Farm launched in 2020, our focus was to address the digital skills gap and be intentional about expanding our programs and establishing transformative spaces in areas where advanced technology and educational opportunities are not as accessible,” stated the president of Ed Farm Waymond Jackson.

“Every student and teacher deserves the tools and resources necessary to thrive in the 21st century. Unveiling our first-ever Connected Rural Classroom and a new Ed Farm Space here is an honor, and one that represents our tangible commitment to supporting this well-deserved community.”

The Connected Rural Classroom at R.C. Hatch is described as a 800-square-foot “tech-enabled” space designed by learning space architect, Danish Kurani that accommodates the 452 students at the school. It is said to be a first-of-its-kind initiative that utilizes remote learning.

“The Connected Rural Classroom acts as a gateway to the broader world beyond our community,” said Dr. Marcia Smiley, Superintendent of Perry County Board of Education. “In the Perry County School District, we are committed to equipping our scholars with the skills needed to thrive beyond the limits of the Black Belt.”

“While we often face challenges competing with more urban districts–due to limited infrastructure that typically draws businesses and fosters innovation–we firmly believe our circumstances should not disadvantage our scholars.”

A demonstration of the classroom can be seen here. 

The Portal at Hale County College & Career Academy is a 1,248-square-foot hub for K-12 learners with access to a fabrication lab, a podcast room, classroom MacBooks and iPads, collaboration spaces, and audio-video labs. Additionally it will host professional learning sessions for Hale County Teacher Fellows.

“In a small, rural district like ours, we have always had to do more with less,” said Michael Ryans, Superintendent of Hale County Board of Education. “However, today, with the opening of the Portal, we are giving our students a place that says their dreams are just as big and important as anyone else’s.”

“This is just not a high-tech room; it is confirmation that no matter where you come from, you deserve access to the tools, skills, and experiences that prepare you for the future. Whether it’s podcasting, video production, or just having the place to think creatively, the Portal is a game-changer for our students, educators and community.”

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