The Western Wisconsin Communications Cooperative (WWCC) was established in 1973 to develop and implement a county-wide, multi-service, broadband, interactive, telecommunications system to enhance the quality of rural life. Eight school districts adopted the system's concept and signed a 15 year lease agreement with WWCC. Funds were procured from the Farm Home Administration for system construction, with a grant from the Kellogg Foundation providing resources for equipment placed in each school, and for technical assistance from four universities of the West Central Wisconsin Consortium. Construction began in 1978, was completed in 1980, and includes: three microwave towers to transmit signals throughout the country; 133 miles of cable which interconnect 9 communities and 8 school districts; a 4.6 meter Scientific Atlanta earth station antenna; intra-school dissemination (all schools have an internal distribution system compatible with the external cable system); two-way transmission capabilities for all schools (allows schools to share staff and facilities to expand educational offerings); and originating receiving equipment (furnished by the Kellogg Foundation). The system also provides opportunities for curriculum and staff development, staff inservice, programs for handicapped or gifted, as well as social services, security systems, and recreational entertainment for rural citizens. (AH)