HARGRAY PROVIDES COMPUTERS TO PEACH COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL TO SUPPORT ONLINE LEARNING

December 4, 2020
Karen Cline, Digital Marketing & PR Manager - Hargray Communications

HILTON HEAD, S.C. — [12/3/20] — Today, Hargray donated twenty Dell Inspiron 22 3000 All-in-One Desktop computers and $10,000 to Peach County High School in Fort Valley, GA. The donation will be used to start a school program for students without access to a computer and high-speed internet at home and to support teachers with online learning.

The COVID-19 pandemic poses schools with the challenge of incorporating distance learning into their curriculum. Peach County High School is economically disadvantaged, with nearly all students receiving free or reduced lunch. Many teachers and families are struggling to obtain the proper devices and internet connection to support distance learning. Hargray's goal is to maximize students' access to education and minimize interruptions in schooling caused by the pandemic.

"We understand that this pandemic has put added stress on schools and families to acquire the necessary tools to complete online learning," said Chris Lyons, Hargray General Manager. "We saw an opportunity to alleviate some of that pressure by providing computers and extra funds to keep Peach County students on track with their coursework. The idea sprung from our conversation with Jo Cobb, President of the Peach County Touchdown Club, about our athletic sponsorship this season. We realized the critical need this year for students to stay connected to their education."

During the spring semester of last year's school year, when schools moved entirely to distance learning, many families did not have adequate equipment for this transition. This year, Peach County High School is offering two options for students. One option is 100 percent online, and the other is a hybrid schedule that incorporates online and in-person learning. Both options require students and teachers to have access to High-Speed Internet and a connected device. Hargray offers speeds up to 1,000 Mbps to support this level of activity. This donation of computers and funding will help teachers at Peach County High facilitate online learning and close the digital divide students face.

"We are thrilled to have the support of Hargray now more than ever. This donation demonstrates Hargray's commitment to the community and local education," said Dr. Ken Hartley, Principal, Peach County High School.

"This year has brought unique challenges causing families to suffer economically. Hargray's gift comes at a crucial time for us. These resources will supplement district resources to ensure all students have access to the necessary tools at home to navigate distance learning,” said Dr. Lionel Brown, Superintendent, Peach County Schools.

Hargray also offers a Jumpstart program that offers discounted services for qualifying families. For more information on Hargray's Jumpstart Program, visit www.hargray.com/jump-start.

About Hargray

Founded in 1947, Hargray is a regional telecommunications company providing advanced communications and entertainment services in a growing set of markets in the southeastern United States. Hargray delivers the most advanced technology and the best service for its customers and is active in the communities it serves by supporting a wide range of local charities, organizations, projects, and events.

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For more information, contact:

Karen Cline, Digital Marketing & PR Manager

Hargray Communications

843-341-1567 (o)                                     

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