Hi-tech learning tools such as tablet PCs used to be in short supply at Portland Elementary, located on Louisville’s West End. That has significantly changed, thanks in part to UofL’s College of Business.
The college’s Elevate Portland Elementary Initiative provided cutting edge educational technology to the 5th grade class at Portland Elementary in early February.
“We hope our efforts, both today and throughout the initiative, leads to changing the lives of the students and teachers we touch,” College of Business Interim Dean Rohan Christie-David said. “This is a part of the fabric of the college and we understand that UofL is looked at as a partner in helping these children fulfill some of their dreams and aspirations.”
One of the anonymous donors who supports the COB’s outreach efforts is particularly encouraged by the Elevate Portland Elementary Initiative because of his childhood ties to the Portland community.
“I was born there, grew up there and got my first job in Portland – so I see a lot of myself in these kids,” the donor said. “I just feel like I owe that neighborhood something and seeing what UofL is doing with Portland Elementary, I just felt compelled to be able to help out.”
The new tablets will be used across multiple subjects, such as math and social studies. In addition, the tablets will help students who are struggling to learn how to read by allowing them to learn at their own pace and tutor them throughout the reading program.
According to the school principal, UofL’s commitment will have a direct impact on both students and teachers alike.
“It’s empowering to be a part of a collaborative partnership that sees the need and is responsive to take action,” Principal Angela Hosch said. “To see the response is not only more than what we could have hoped for but a huge morale boost for us all.
In addition to meeting a number of UofL faculty and staff, the Portland Elementary 5th graders were able to interact with JCPS Superintendent Donna Hargens and District 1 JCPS School Board member and UofL College of Business graduate Diane Porter, who also attended.
The Elevate Portland Elementary Initiative debuted in November with the presentation of sweatshirts to the students that display their future high school graduation year on the back.
