Grants help provide new computers for Putnam County students

Students in Putnam County will be better connected to technology over the next five years through the purchase of 50 netbooks, 40 Apple iPads, and 33 desktop computers for schools through three 21st Century Learning Center Grants, which total over $2 million.

The computers were purchased by the Putnam County Educational Service Center, which supports nine school districts with funding sources for technology, curriculum, social workers, and after-school support. This new technology will
impact about 3,000 students in the county.

In addition, the center held summer technology camps for students in fifth through eighth grades.

“It’s an exciting time for us since we’re a rural area where residents aren’t usually exposed to technology,” Curriculum Coordinator Pat Smith said. “These computers will help bridge the gap and provide valuable training to our students. In addition, we’re working with Northwest Ohio Educational Technology to also provide computer training for parents and teachers.”

Smith said the new technology is vital to county students.

“The students will be able to visually learn and to develop career-readiness skills,” she said.

The center also hosts Connect Ohio’s monthly Putnam County eCommunity Strategies meeting.