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One-of-a-Kind Program Gives Deserving Students Much Needed Technology03/14/2006 - There is no doubt that the Internet has changed the world, especially the world of our students. With just a few clicks, information is literally at our fingertips. But, what about children who don't have access to this world of technology? Guilford County Schools has partnered with the HandyCapable Network, Inc. in a pilot program, "A Mouse in Every House" which provides 10 computers to deserving, disabled or socially economically challenged students. HandyCapable Network is a non-profit organization that promotes self-sufficiency and enriches the lives of people with disabilities or people who are otherwise socially and economically challenged, by providing training and access to computer technology. "This is an excellent partnership between GCS and HandyCapable Network because this program meets a significant need in our community," says Cecilia Adams, manager of community partnerships for GCS. "As a district, we're thrilled to be a part of this pilot program." Washington Elementary has been chosen as the pilot school. Students submitted an essay on how a computer would benefit their household. At Washington Elementary's next PTA meeting, which is March 16 at 6 p.m., HandyCapable Network will open up a new world of learning to 10 deserving and no doubt, excited students. The winning students were chosen by a committee of volunteers based on their essay submission. This non-profit has been a Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher for nearly three years. Meeting Microsoft's qualifications allows HandyCapable Network to provide legal operating system licensing for each computer. Their computers are refurbished by computer technicians who are over the age of 18 and have one or more physical or developmental disabilities or mental illness, which prevents them from working fulltime. There is no question that literacy skills are needed to function effectively in today's ever changing world. And a significant part is computer literacy. "Today, computer literacy is just as important as basic literacy, says Barbara L. Davis, project director at HandyCapable Network. Clearwire is providing its wireless high speed internet service to these 10 winning students. "Clearwire is happy to be a part of this pilot program," says Barbara Proctor, Clearwire's general manager for Greensboro. "With access to the internet, these students can complete homework, expand their knowledge of the world around them, and continue on their paths to success." |
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