Michigan 4-H empowers teens to bridge digital divide in rural schools

Abbey Miller<abmiller@msu.edu>, Michigan State University Extension - February 09, 2026

Michigan 4-H has relaunched its 4-H Tech Changemakers Program to help rural communities overcome the digital divide through youth leadership and technology education in Chippewa, Mackinac and Luce counties.

A student in a booth describing a project to onlookers. — The 4-H Tech Changemakers Program is partnering with schools in the Eastern Upper Peninsula to combine broadband access, technology education and youth leadership to close the digital gap in Michigan communities.

Michigan 4-H has relaunched its 4-H Tech Changemakers Program to help rural communities overcome the digital divide through youth leadership and technology education in Chippewa, Mackinac and Luce counties. The program partners with Sault Ste. Marie Area Public Schools, Rudyard Area Schools, Pickford Area Schools and the Sault Tribe Youth Education & Activities Program to empower teens as “digital ambassadors,” teaching digital literacy and internet safety to adults and peers.

Made possible through partnerships with the Eastern Upper Peninsula Intermediate School District, Eastern Upper Peninsula Connect Collaborative as well as funding from GreenStone Farm Credit Services, this two-year initiative equips teens to lead workshops on essential skills like social media, smartphone setup and online security — helping rural communities thrive in a connected world.

“The enthusiasm from youth has been amazing,” said Maggie Merchberger, 4-H program coordinator for Chippewa County MSU Extension. “Clubs are growing in membership, leadership and purpose. Students are eager to help and passionate about making a difference in their communities.”

At Pickford Public Schools, what began with four students quickly grew to ten active members. “Interest and enthusiasm continue to grow,” said Barton St. Peters, Cybersecurity/STEM teacher. “Students proudly share their involvement with families and value the focus on volunteerism and digital citizenship.”

By combining technology education with civic engagement, the program helps communities understand the impact of the digital divide while equipping youth with advanced digital skills and leadership experience.

This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit https://extension.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit https://extension.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit https://extension.msu.edu/experts, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).