A federal broadband program meant to close the digital divide in rural America is stalled, and now thousands of Virginians are left waiting.

Funded through a state grant, this effort will lay over 100 miles of new fiber and bring lasting connectivity to residents in White Gate, Staffordsville, Poplar Hill, Wilburn Valley, and Walker Creek.

In rural communities, vocational options such as agriculture, welding, auto-body repair and healthcare are increasingly popular among students.