A consensus has emerged that zip code determines economic prosperity and educational attainment. The theory goes that those in urban centers and closest to jobs and schools are most likely to prosper while those in rural communities are left behind in an unbreakable cycle of poverty. Thankfully, policymakers today have one potent weapon to upend conventional thought and unleash rural prosperity and break the cycle.

The weapon? Broadband deployment to rural America. Want better jobs? Connect rural America. Want more economic development and investment? Connect rural America. Want better educational choices and outcomes? Connect rural America.

For more on this article visit Broadband is key to rural prosperity (theledger.com)