Taste of Columbus Funds Update Technology for the PVLA

One of the reasons why we were so excited to get Taste of Columbus money was to be able to use the funds to update the technology here at the PVLA.

Now, don’t get us wrong: we have some great technology in our classrooms. When CCC remodeled the space, they made sure we had top-of-the-line screens and desktops so that educational information could be displayed to students.

And those systems are amazing!

 However, we also needed some technology that was a bit more personal. In particular, laptops.

The laptops that the PVLA had were acquired several years ago using grant funds. They had been refurbished and were mainly used to keep students connected during the COVID-19 pandemic. While they served their purpose at the time, they were starting to show their age.

In fact, several of them had to be recycled because they died and couldn’t be brought back to life.

In addition, some of the sites and apps that we access on laptops have also been updated, and the old computers didn’t have what was needed to keep up with the changes.

Students Get the Most Out of Technology

With Taste of Columbus funds, the PVLA was able top purchase six new laptops for students—and they are fancy! They will allow students to access everything they need to be successful in their education.

These computers can be used by any and all students who come into our space. They can’t be checked out, but they can be used on-site. Whether an individual needs to study for the citizenship test, wants to get some extra ESL practice by watching videos or playing games, or needs to take a test, these new laptops can do it all.

These computers can (and more than likely will) be used when it comes to one-on-one employability skills. Students will have the opportunity to get online to search and apply for jobs that will support them and their families.

One of our new laptops is currently being used in the Conversational Spanish class to enhance lessons.

Technological Success

Here at the PVLA, we are proud and excited to be able to offer our students up-to-date technology to aid in their learning. Our classrooms may have some great technology, but being able to supplement that with laptops that offer a more personal experience can’t be beat.

We wouldn’t have been able to do this without the funds from Taste of Columbus, and we’re so honored and proud to know that the people of Columbus supported us in our endeavors. You’ve made a difference in students’ lives, and we can’t thank you enough.