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Network History

The North Central Distance Learning Network (NCDLN) was initiated in spring 2002 for the purpose of enhancing partnerships and educational opportunities between Barton County Community College (Barton), Russell High School, Lucas-Luray High School, Wilson High School, Quivira Heights High School and Victoria High School. The NCDLN allows partners to share college and high school coursework over a closed ITV (instructional television) network. The network is connected via dedicated T1 lines.

Special Note: The network is in the process of changing its connectivity. this change will connect members to ISP's and to Kan-ed; thus eliminating the current dedicated T1 lines.

Membership is based upon a common desire to achieve the following goals:

  • expand the College's Outreach and College Advantage programs,

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  • diversify course offerings,

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  • utilize college instructors with required teaching requirements,

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  • share high school instructional resources,

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  • utilize the network for staff meetings,

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  • grant network access to business and industry, community members and other interested parties.

Each originating partner (as named above) was required to contribute necessary funds to purchase and install equipment during the first fiscal year ($5000) and pay a subsequent annual fee of $2000 through 2008. The annual fee will be adjusted beginning 2009 for originating members and will be equal for all participating members. All original equipment was purchased through the NCDLN. All originating members were recipients of the Rural Utility Services (RUS) grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and thus used grant funds to help offset equipment expenses.Special

Note: Due to changes in the network's connectivity, all NCDLN members will benefit from a reduced annual membership fee beginning in 2007. The annual fee will be $1000.

In 2005, Claflin High School was unanimously voted in as a new member of the NCDLN. As required of new members, Claflin High School signed a three-year network agreement, paid the one T-1 line costs and the network membership fee. Claflin High School pays an annual fee of $3500 to the network. The school received a Kan-Ed grant to assist with the equipment costs.

Special Note: beginning in 2007, Claflin High School will pay the same $1000 annual fee as other NCDLN members.