New Mexico celebrates launch of rural student broadband connections

A total of 484 student households in Grant County (NM) are receiving high-speed internet, thanks to a New Mexico Student Connect grant program designed to provide broadband access to rural students across New Mexico. The Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE) joined TWN Communications, state leaders, and local officials at Silver High School to celebrate the launch of a $1.5 million Student Connect grant project connecting rural students and school staff in Silver City. TWN is using the state funding to upgrade five towers, build fixed wireless service, and provide equipment for designated student homes. TWN will connect unserved and underserved rural students. Participating students and staff will also receive up to three years of complimentary broadband, enabling students to connect to educational resources at home and closing the digital divide. OBAE has approved 12 Student Connect grants, totaling $23 million. All Student Connect projects must be completed by June 30, 2026.