New Computer Lab Will Enable Students to Research Homework Assignments; Learn and Enhance Computer Skills in the After-School Hours
GTECH Corporation launched a new After School Advantage computer lab this afternoon at Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida’s Universal Orlando Foundation Branch in Orlando, Florida. GTECH’s After School Advantage program serves at-risk children throughout the United States who may not have the same access to computers as their peers. The Boys & Girls Club computer lab comes equipped with 12 new Dell computers, new workstations and chairs, two printers, a variety of educational software, and two digital cameras. The $15,000 computer lab also received a fresh coat of paint and wall decorations, courtesy of GTECH employees.
The new computer lab will be used by students in kindergarten through fifth grade who participate in the after-school program at the Boys & Girls Club. These students attend Eagle’s Nest, Eccleston, Ivey Lane, Metrowest, Oak Hill, Orlo Vista, Richmond Heights, and Washington Shores elementary schools in Orlando. Students will use the lab to learn and enhance computer skills, complete class projects, and for other educational opportunities.
Also on hand for the ribbon-cutting ceremony were (TBD) and other local dignitaries.
“We are very appreciative of the opportunities that this lab brings to disadvantaged children in this community. The new lab will enable our members to sharpen their computer skills and expand their educational goals, thanks to GTECH’s donation,” said Gary Cain, President, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida. “Most of our children do not have access to computers in their homes so this is really a great resource for them.”
“The Florida Lottery’s main goal is to enhance public education in our state. We are delighted that GTECH, one of our primary business partners, also embraces the advancement of education through efforts such as the After School Advantage program,” said Florida Lottery Secretary Leo DiBenigno. “This computer lab is an excellent example of the kind of contributions businesses can make to benefit students in their communities.”
GTECH’s After School Advantage computer lab program aims to provide meaningful activities for children after school. Five to 15 million children known as “latchkey kids” come home from school each day to an empty house. It is during these critical hours that most juvenile crimes are committed and children are at an increased risk of being the victim of a violent crime.
Access to and proficiency in computers has become increasingly important in today’s society, the workplace, and in schools. However, the so-called “digital divide” for minorities, low-income households, and families headed by a single parent continues to be a big problem. According to the 2002 report from the United States Department of Commerce, households with incomes of $75,000 and above are nearly three times as likely to be Internet users than households at the lowest income levels.
“The new computer lab and software will help our members with their home work and will improve their basic educational skills, including reading proficiency and understanding of technology,” said Betty McKinney, Universal Orlando Branch Service Director “These computers will really enhance our educational and career development program, and give our kids the opportunity to achieve and succeed in school.”
Since April 1999, GTECH has installed 109 After School Advantage computer centers in 22 states and the District of Columbia, Florida, Virginia, Rhode Island, Texas, Oregon, Georgia, California, Kentucky, Ohio, Arizona, New Jersey, Michigan, Washington, Kansas, Wisconsin, New York, Colorado, Missouri, Louisiana, Illinois, New Mexico, Idaho, and Washington, D.C.
More information about GTECH is available at www.gtech.com.
