NM gets learning, telemedicine grants

PORTALES, N.M. (AP) - Several New Mexico communities have received $1 million in federal grants to improve distance learning and telemedicine.

Sen. Jeff Bingaman says all three grants come from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Distance Learning and Telemedicine Program.

He says nearly $500,000 has been awarded to connect high schools and middle schools in Otero, Chaves and Lincoln counties to Eastern New Mexico University.

Western New Mexico University will receive $267,000 to expand distance learning opportunities to 20 rural communities.

The money will benefit residents of Grant, Luna, McKinley, Sierra, Socorro, Hidalgo and Catron counties.

Nizhoni Smiles, Inc., in Shiprock will get $247,000 to connect high schools and chapter houses in New Mexico, Utah and Arizona to dental providers.