Washington, Dec 13, 2005 -

U.S. Representative John Carter (TX-31) today announced that Education Service Center (ESC) XI, which serves several counties including Erath County, has been awarded a $500,000 grant. This Distance Learning and Telemedicine grant from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development office will allow ESC XI to enhance its education services to the counties it represents, through improved connectivity and videoconferencing systems.

"Access to education is important to our country’s future success," Congressman Carter said. "These federal funds will allow Erath County and surrounding school districts to improve student performance while increasing the effectiveness of school operations."