PRESIDENT CLINTON PRAISES TECH CORPS AS LEADER IN BRIDGING THE ‘DIGITAL DIVIDE’

U.S. President Bill Clinton recognizes TECH CORPS and its partnership with Compaq Computer Corporation as an exemplary effort to provide greater access to technology for all youths.

 

Shiprock, NM, April 17, 2000 Clinton made his remarks Monday April 17, 2000 at the Boys & Girls Club in Shiprock, New Mexico.  The event was part of the President's groundbreaking Digital Divide Tour. On April 17-18, President Clinton – accompanied by technology leaders, members of Congress, Cabinet Secretaries and community leaders – focused national attention on initiatives aimed at bridging the digital divide and creating opportunities for youth, families and communities.  Supported by Compaq, TECH CORPS developed "techs4schools,” an online mentoring program that offers volunteer technical assistance to schools who could not otherwise be reached by face-to-face volunteers.  Representatives from TECH CORPS and Compaq were invited to join the President on his visit to New Mexico.

 

Through techs4schools, volunteer technology experts are connected online with schools to create a support structure where school technology coordinators can seek technical advice and support. Techs4schools brings together the best technical expertise around the country and makes it available to the nation's schools regardless of geographic or demographic barriers.

 

TECH CORPS is a national nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the teaching and learning environment in K-12 schools through technology. All programs are provided free to schools, and all services are implemented through volunteers from the technology industry.  You can learn more at http://www.techcorps.org/. 

 

"TECH CORPS understands that the ability to provide support to schools regardless of location is a key component to bridging the digital divide.  It is an honor to have TECH CORPS’ commitment to improving the use of technology in all of our schools recognized by President Clinton,” said Karen Smith, Executive Director of TECH CORPS.  “Creating a structure for virtual collaboration can bring critically needed technology expertise into schools.  If our education system is expected to harness the full power of technology, we must rely on technology professionals to volunteer and be the driving force behind programs like techs4schools.”

 

TECH CORPS was able to develop, pilot and support the national April 2000 launch of the techs4schools Online Mentoring Program through its partnership with Compaq Computer Corporation.  Compaq is a national sponsor of TECH CORPS and has contributed $500,000 to TECH CORPS and the development of techs4schools.   Techs4schools is now available for all schools and volunteers.

 

"Compaq is honored to be recognized by President Clinton today for our joint efforts with TECH CORPS in the creation of the techs4schools program. As a leader in providing Internet infrastructure, access, services and solutions, we recognize that partnerships with organizations like TECH CORPS can broaden access to technology – and to economic opportunity – across geographies and socioeconomic levels," said Michael D. Capellas, Compaq President and CEO. "We know as well as anyone that technology skills are vital to success in the Internet Age. Compaq will continue to support initiatives that enhance education, narrow the digital divide and strengthen the future of our high-tech workforce."