Education
Benjamin Franklin said, “an investment in education always pays the best dividends.” America is most successful when it taps the full range of its potential. It is vital that the nation’s schools and universities have the resources needed to prepare students while remaining affordable and accessible.
As a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, Congressman Bishop has secured millions of dollars for education programs, including funding for new schools and libraries, after-school programs, STEM education initiatives, school nutrition and physical education programs, as well as family counseling and youth mentoring.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Congressman Bishop helped lead the effort to provide emergency funding to ensure that schools could operate safely and learning could continue.
Middle and Southwest Georgia also is home to several institutions of higher education, both private and public. This includes two Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) – Albany State University and Fort Valley State University. Congressman Bishop has ensured that these institutions have the resources they need to prepare their students for the twenty-first century economy.
More on Education
The Connecting Minority Communities Program will plan, develop, and expand the institution's reach to online and distance learning globally. With a focus on broadband expansions, the program will enhance the educational instruction and learning opportunities offered at ASU.
The U.S. Department of Commerce program is overseen by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration and focuses on providing and expanding broadband internet service and equipment for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Tribal Colleges and Universities, and Minority-Serving Institutions. The funds can also be used to hire and train IT personnel.
The university was given a $2,997,777 Connecting Minority Communities Program grant.
Congressman Sanford Bishop said broadband access is crucial to everyday life.
The funds also can be used to hire and train IT personnel.
These funds will go toward ensuring quality, affordable childcare services, early childhood development, and increased school readiness in Peach County and Middle Georgia.
Albany and Dougherty County have had more than their fair share of challenges in recent years (straight-line wind events, a tornado, a hurricane and being Ground Zero for the COVID-19 pandemic in Georgia). However, residents and businesses in this Southwest Georgia county are resilient. They have worked hard to generate opportunities for a better quality of life that includes increased healthcare access, workforce development, a thriving downtown and improved economic prospects.