Sept. 18, 2007 — Hovensa didn't just donate computers to Elena Christian Junior High, it provided a whole technology center.
"I am pleased that we have the most state-of-the-art lab on island," said Willard John, principal at Elena Christian. "And we had the lab ready for the opening of school."
A dedication at the school Wednesday morning drew 25 people.
Elena Christian participates in the St. Croix Foundation's Model Schools Initiative and was chosen as a pilot school in 2005. The foundation works to prepare students to compete in the global 21st century economy through a high-quality educational curriculum, resources and community support, according to Roger Dewey, executive director.
The model schools program focuses heavily on literacy-based academic-enrichment resources. The computer lab was critical for the foundation to administer key computer-based literacy programs, Reading Counts and Reading Inventory, Dewey said, according to a news release from the foundation. The partnership with Hovensa resulted in a renovated library room with new windows and doors, new furniture and air conditioning. The foundation donated a security system and paid for a year of monitoring to secure Hovensa's investment.
The St. Croix Board of Education chipped in with the technical assistance to install the systems for the $100,000 project.
"These systems are really state of the art, with the best and fastest net connection," said Joseph Philbert, the board of education's computer technician.
Five students at the ceremony gave PowerPoint presentations about their summer vacations. Some presentations were on travel, and one concerned time spent on St. Croix beaches.
"The children are taking it very seriously," said Jerry Comparativo, computer teacher. "They are well refined, disciplined and motivated."
The lab also offers fringe benefits.
"Not only will students benefit, teachers may use the lab, too," Comparativo said.
The lab is an investment in the future for Hovensa, according to Lt. Gov. Gregory Francis, who attended Tuesday's dedication.
"I am very grateful to Hovensa for giving back to the community as in this lab," he said. "Hovensa will have some future employees coming out of this endeavor."
Elena Christian may be just the beginning.
"When we looked at pilot school Elena Christian, we were convinced Principal Willard John had the right school for the lab," said Hovensa President Larry Kupfer. "Based on results, we may roll it out to other schools."
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