Even though stay-at-home restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic have closed school campuses, learning continues for students. While young people throughout Sacramento County have been engaged in distance learning, many Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) students lack computers, which is hampering their education.
Thanks to a generous donation from Intel Corporation and Microsoft, more SCOE students can now engage in distance learning. Yesterday, 125 Surface Pro laptops were delivered to SCOE as part of the COVID-19 Response and Readiness Initiative. The donation is part of an Intel initiative to support education-focused, nonprofit organizations and business partners. The goal is to provide students who don’t have access to technology with devices and online learning resources.
The donated computers will help students in SCOE’s Court School, Community Schools, and Special Education programs continue their learning online.
“The COVID-19 crisis is forcing us to recognize the harsh realities of our digital divide. Many of our students and families do not have computers at home, and this generous donation from Intel and Microsoft will help keep our students connected with school. We are immensely grateful,” said David W. Gordon, Sacramento County Superintendent of Schools.
Intel has also announced a new initiative to support Title 1 schools. The Intel Online Learning Initiative focuses on PC donations, online virtual resources, study-at-home guides, and device connectivity assistance.