RUS BUILDS INFORMATION SUPERHIGHWAY OFF RAMP NEAR NATIONAL PARK
State: California
Grantee: Educational Enhancement Foundation
Borrower Name and ID: Sierra Telephone Company (CA 515)
Counties: Madera & Mariposa

Oakhurst, CA., is a small town of 25,000 residents, located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of Central California. Much of this area is considered wilderness and sections of Yosemite National Park are located near Oakhurst in Mariposa County. The distance from the larger cities like Fresno, 120 miles away, leaves the area isolated from many of the urban problems that plague those cities. However, living in such a scenic and remote area also means making sacrifices. One of these sacrifices is limited availability of education and training programs that enable the community to compete in the ever increasing job and college admissions markets.

The location problem, however, for town of Oakhurst has been greatly reduced. RUS loans to Sierra Telephone Company in the past provided the appropriate telecommunications infrastructure needed to accommodate distance learning capabilities. The Educational Enhancement Foundation (EEF) was selected to receive a RUS Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant award. The nearly $400,000 grant will assist EEF to provide advance telecommunications services such as high-speed digital (which allows video transmission) distance learning network to Oakhurst area students. The RUS grant funds will also be used to purchase interactive equipment allowing an interactive network between California State University Fresno and Yosemite High School in Oakhurst and Mariposa County High School. By the end of 1995, distance learning facilities will be located at seven area schools utilizing a two-way video as well as audio network. Adult students have found easy access to GED and college level programs. Training and recertification programs for teachers and emergency services personnel have also been provided.

The implementation of the new technology will also help to foster the growth and success of local businesses and encourage new businesses to locate in the area. The network will soon offer a business center that features video teleconferencing, telecommuting services, and other specialized services, vital to rural travelers on the Information Superhighway.