The Hillsborough Education Foundation (HEF), through its Tech Connect program, has recently orchestrated a beneficial workshop for students from Wimauma Elementary School. Tailored to support migrant families, this workshop focused on developing digital literacy skills and navigating the diverse programs offered by Hillsborough County Public Schools.

Made possible by the generous funding from the Children’s Board, this initiative allowed HEF to directly engage with these families. A primary goal was to enhance parental involvement in their children’s education, bolstering their ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with teachers and school administration; a crucial step in creating a robust educational support system at home.

HEF’s commitment to bridging the digital divide was clearly evident, as they equipped each attending family with a new computer and essential school supplies; a gesture that not only facilitates online learning but also extends educational resources beyond the classroom. This provision empowers students to fully utilize digital tools for their academic growth and development.

In an inclusive approach, the HEF Tech Connect program incorporated personalized one-on-one coaching sessions for students. These sessions were aimed at helping them to access and utilize their online curriculum more effectively. Additionally, the program extended its reach beyond schoolwork by connecting families with additional community resources, highlighting the importance of technology in improving overall digital literacy.

Overall, the HEF Tech Connect program has made considerable efforts to ensure that both students and their parents are equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to thrive in today’s digital-centric educational landscape. Significantly, this initiative marks a vital step in promoting equitable access to technology and education for all community members, setting a precedent for future educational support programs.