Help Us Bridge the Digital Divide

This year, we hope to raise $20,000 to address the “digital divide” and help our kids gain the skills they need to compete in a tech-savvy world. The Mount Laurel Township School District is advancing its use of computers and technology requiring many homework assignments to be done exclusively on computers. This requirement weighs unevenly on our children, many of whom do not have access to computers at home due to the high cost of the equipment, software, Internet service and IT support. Even though the library provides computer time, some of our families do not have cars either. Here are some of our concerns:

  • There are homework assignments that must be done on a computer and are due the next day.
  • The children need access to Google Docs to submit assignments.
  • Research and lab reports have to be typed.
  • Brochure and collage creation requires printing (the library charges for this service).
  • Teacher comments are embedded in online programs that require a computer to access.

To respond to this pressing issue, the Margaret Donnelly O’Connor Education Center is raising funds to reconfigure and modernize our computer lab, which includes upgrading hardware and software as well as installing new benches and desks. We also seek funding to expand our educational offerings and tech support for various aspects of our program.

Homework Club/Summer Enrichment Program

Our educators provide daily technical and academic support to help 1st through high school students complete homework assignments on the computer. Students need access to online tutoring and standardized test prep programs as well as academic apps. They also need to practice typing. During the 2014 summer program, FSHD will be hosting our first coding class in addition to enrolling children in our digital storytelling program, which has encouraged our students to learn movie-making software.

High School and College Students

Older students utilize our computer lab to work on college applications and resumes, to access grades and transcript information as well as fill out financial aid applications and search for scholarships. We also host SAT prep classes which require online access.

Parents and other ERLH residents

During the day, parents and other residents use the computer lab to check their children’s academic progress online, to work on resumes, file financial aid forms, monitor child support payments, research housing assistance opportunities and to check email.

FSHD will also continue to advocate for our children through ongoing communication with the Mount Laurel School District. The “digital divide”impacts all 120 of our children, about 60 of whom are receiving help from the Margaret Donnelly O’Connor Education Center.

Please make a donation to help support the Education Center today!