(NASHVILLE, TN), March 29, 2010 - State Senator Mike Faulk (R- Church Hill) said today that he has been informed by the Department of Education that federal Title II-D Education Technology funding has now been expanded to their e4TN online learning initiative.  The move will affect several schools in Grainger, Hancock and Hawkins Counties within the 4th Senatorial District, which Faulk represents.

"This action will provide students with more opportunities to access enrollment options through this program," said Senator Faulk.  "It will also provide needed support and resources to help them succeed."

The Department hopes to enroll 4000 students in e-Learning courses in 60 school districts across the state.  Through a competitive process, 60 school districts were awarded grants to begin e4000TN programs. The grant provides the districts serving high school students $10,000 to be used for personnel and equipment, and another $10,000 credit available to access current e4TN e-Learning courses.
 
School districts can utilize the grant funding to provide programs that include: distance learning opportunities; credit recovery; advanced credit; serving gifted, special education or English Language Learner populations; supplementing or driving Advanced Placement offerings; filling teacher shortages; or serving homebound students.

"This is a great opportunity to provide students with challenges another avenue to receive a quality education and to provide gifted students with advanced learning opportunities," added Faulk.  "I am very pleased to see students in several of our counties have a chance to participate in this program."

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