Telepresence Grant Supports Sick and Injured Students in Lancaster County

HARRISBURG – Students in Lancaster County who are facing extended absences from school due to injury or illness will soon have new educational resources thanks to a grant that was awarded today, according to Senator Scott Martin (R-13), who helped create the grant program.

A $14,094 grant to Lancaster-Lebanon Intermediate Unit 13A from the Keystone Telepresence Grant Program will support the purchase of audio and video equipment that will allow students to participate in classroom activities and learning in real time from home. A total of $300,000 was awarded through the program statewide.

The grant program was created earlier this year by a bill that Martin authored to support students facing the potential of significant educational and developmental challenges due to extended school absences.

In current practice, homebound education is available to students who cannot attend school due to serious medical issues. However, many schools struggle to find a qualified teacher to provide instruction, and the extended amount of time away from classmates and teachers can also create difficult circumstances for children.

“These grants are invaluable in helping these students retain some sense of connection to the outside world and avoid falling behind in their studies,” Martin said. “Allowing students to participate in normal classroom activities not only helps from an educational standpoint, but also socially and emotionally so they do not feel isolated from their classmates and teachers.”

The Keystone Telepresence Grant Program is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

CONTACT: Terry Trego (717) 787-6535

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