December 22, 2000
Hilltop High School, in the Sweetwater
District, now has a way to provide home access to technology for
some of its highest-need students—thanks to a $35,000 grant
award from Pacific Bell. Scott Alevy, Pacific Bell's Director
of External Affairs, presented the contribution at the Sweetwater
Board of Trustees meeting December 11.
Teens in Hilltop's Academy of Information Technology will check
out loaner laptops to complete technology assignments at home.
Seventeen students who are economically disadvantaged will participate
in the lending program.
"Pac Bell's contribution means financial hardship won't limit these kids in preparing for careers and the future," said Sweetwater Board of Trustees president Bob Griego.
Hilltop's Academy —sponsored by the National Academy Foundation— prepares students for information technology careers by integrating rigorous academic and career education curriculum in grades nine through twelve.
"Having a computer to work on at home really helps students master what they learn in the classroom," said Principal Jerry Rindone, "but, unfortunately, most schools just don't have the resources for take-home technology."
Hilltop's project director Maria Suggett says students love the Academy's intensive, hands-on learning because it gives them the advanced skills and experience employers are looking for. "And Pacific Bell's support has helped make their dedication to success even stronger."
Hilltop is one of only twelve sites nationwide selected by the National Academy Foundation to pilot an Academy of Information Technology. The Sweetwater district school shares this honor with just one other high school in California.
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