The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has pledged $12.9 million to fund technology-focused initiatives at community colleges across the U.S. Hilary Pennington, who serves as the director of education, postsecondary success, and special initiatives for the Foundation, says these grants are targeting “the best new ideas that hold the greatest promise for improving the odds for low-income young adult learners.” The Foundation has announced that a specific goal of this initiative is to double the number low-income students who, by age 26, have completed practical degrees or credentials. The grants will be used to fund activities such as using social media to innovate the teaching of basic writing and math skills and the creation of virtual learning environments.

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