Arkansas public and private colleges to share $7.6 million in federal education grants

Arkansas two- and four-year colleges received a huge boost on Monday, when state officials announced a $7.6 million initiative to help keep at-risk students in school.
The funding is aimed at providing more support services for first-generation, low-income or disabled students to encourage them to continue pursuing higher levels of education. Money will be allocated to programs that promote staying in school, achieving academic excellence and assist individuals in graduating.
Many schools have invested in smart technology to help keep students interested in the classroom. The combination of laptops and smartboards with an HD TV, large-screen LED monitor or USB
classroom projector have been used to create a hands-on learning experience designed to spark interest among students.
The integration of cutting-edge technology can be especially useful at college-level institutions, as students can benefit from being exposed to equipment they may be using when they graduate. Experts say allowing learners to become more familiar with new technology while in school enables them to be more qualified for jobs.
Recently, Jones County Junior College in Ellesville, Mississippi invested federal money in upgrading the audio and visual technology in its classrooms in order to provide its students with new interactive learning strategies.
