Podcast: Valley school districts to get much faster high speed internet service

EDINBURG, RGV - Region One Education Service Center says it is one step closer to closing the “digital divide” for students in the region.That’s because of the approval of a 10-year $6.7 million funding application by the Universal Service Administration Company (USAC) for the ORION project. ORION (One Regional Interconnected Optical Network) is a regional fiber optic network which provides a fast connection to the internet and a connection to other regional school districts to support classroom initiatives. Ali Kolahdouz, Region One Chief Technology Officer, said ORION will allow participating members more bandwidth and greater internet access that is essential for digital learning and rich technology services at a significant cost savings. With increased bandwidth students will be able to view virtual and immersive worlds, interact with other students across the globe, and learn in an environment built on 21st century infrastructure, Kolahdouz explained, in an in-depth interview with Rio Grande Guardian editor Steve Taylor.The above podcast features an in-depth interview with Kolahdouz.Go to www.riograndeguardian.com to read the latest border news stories and watch the latest news videos.