“What seemed old to some people has changed the lives and education of our students,” WES teacher Brandie Raney explained. “We live in a tech savvy world, and these computers will help our students be better prepared.”
The search for new computers began when Mrs. Raney identified a need on their campus. The goal was to provide more students with access not only to computers, but also to the variety of software-based teaching tools available in the district.
“We have two computer labs on campus, but neither have enough computers to accommodate an entire class,” Mrs. Raney said.
Seeing this challenge as an opportunity, Mrs. Raney began searching for a solution.
“I discussed this need with my husband, and he agreed to check with his company to see if they might be able to donate some of their gently-used computers,” Mrs. Raney said.
Her husband, Ronny Raney, is the Senior Manager of Infrastructure and Architecture at GuideStone Financial Resources. He worked with David Heidle, Senior Manager of IT Service Delivery, and James Hair, Director of IT Services, to find and secure a donation of 26 computers.
Many teachers could hardly contain their excitement. “The computer lab is the new highlight at Wood,” WES teacher Tamara Burgess said.
“The computers that were donated as a result of Mrs. Raney’s hard work and initiative are fast, dependable and beautiful,” bragged WES principal Jacki Cooper. “This is such a great gift to our students and staff!”