HP Equips Neglected Schools with Digital Technology

"School Pride," set to premiere on NBC Oct. 15 at 8 PM ET/PT, is the new school-renovation reality series, that is helping to bring technology to underserved communities nationwide. Created to give local communities an opportunity to renovate and restore their neglected schools, the show is used as a platform to forge volunteers to update facilities and install equipment as part of a rapid seven-day rebuilding process.

The exclusive computer provider for "School Pride," HP has provided a wide range of education technology for classrooms, labs and libraries at all the seven schools appearing on the show, including schools that are in dire economic straits.

HP has partnered with JAR systems LLC, Absolute Software and Kensington in equipping the schools with technology that will allow teachers to incorporate computers into their curriculum, giving students a richer, interactive and personalized educational experience.

"HP's contributions have given these children technology upgrades that will allow them to take learning to the next level," said Denise Cramsey, executive producer of "School Pride," in a statement, and added that HP along with other partners had succeeded in making a tremendous impact at such neglected schools.

Stephen DeWitt, senior VP and general manager of Personal Systems Group at HP, said that the result had been satisfying as students were motivated to learn. Such integration of technology would strengthen engagement and learning and equip them with the skills that they would require in the future. A digital learning environment makes education engaging and relevant in the present scenario.

HP contributed Mini PCs, TouchSmart and All-in-one desktops, notebook PCs for teachers, MultiSeat solutions, workstations and virtual rooms video conferencing software, JAR systems LLC's   contribution was in the form of Mobile netbook carts, and Asset and data protection software came from Absolute Software Cable security locks from Kensington.

"School Pride," from Horizon Alternative Television, is expected to chronicle the transformation of the seven schools throughout its first season: