Location: Rashkis Elementary library, Chapel Hill
Sponsored by: Kramden Institute
On June 3rd, 10 elementary school students attending Rashkis Elementary in Chapel Hill were provided with Dell Computers and flat screen monitors by the Kramden Institute.
The children, known as “Kramden Scholars” are students who have worked hard in school yet do not have the financial means to afford a home computer.
These refurbished computers are donated by area businesses and Kramden volunteers fix, clean, update and make them suitable for use again. Computer programs similar to Microsoft Office are also provided to make the computers useful to the kids using them.
Angela Vargas, a mother of 2 children at Rashkis, arrived at the Award Day 30 minutes early. “My kids are so thrilled to get a computer at home. This is a great feeling to finally get a computer for them.”
Daniel Gonzalez, a third grader in Mrs. Orr’s class, couldn’t wait to get his “new” computer. “I asked my teacher and Ms. Norwood every day when I was going to be able to get my computer.” He added, “I really need one to type school work and to get on the internet.” His father Roberto shook his head and agreed that having a computer at home would help Daniel and the rest of the family. “Daniel has agreed to teach me how to use it”, laughed the elder Gonzalez.
Deshera Mack, the principal at Rashkis, looked on as the children and parents were instructed how to use the computer by Cari DelMariani, one of Kramden’s employees. “It is like Christmas in June”, said Ms. Mack, smiling proudly. “It’s great to give these children and families the support they need to help them learn. It’s wonderful to provide them with something they didn’t think was obtainable.”
Jim Kitchen, a Kramden Board member, hopes that this is just the beginning. “I’ve been speaking with principals at other schools in the area and our mission is to help bridge the digital divide in community.”
To learn more about the Kramden Institute visit http://www.kramden.org/
Jim and Mark Dibner, Kramden’s Executive Director, examining laptop computers sent by ModusLink.