March 3, 2006-Charlotte Amalie High School received a state-of-the-art photocopy machine from FirstBank V.I., and the donation includes an agreement to service and maintain the copier for the next 12 months. The Xerox Coyrcentre C123 photocopier was donated to assist the CAHS English Department with lesson planning, testing and regular English assignments.
"When corporate sponsors partner with schools, students benefit," said Lisa Forde, assistant superintendent of the Department of Education. "Again, FirstBank has proven its commitment to the children of the Virgin Islands."
FirstBank Vice President of Technology and Facilities John Lewis was instrumental in making the donation happen. "We are pleased to be able to support our schools and assist our teachers and administrators in making their jobs a little easier."
FirstBank has made several contributions in public schools in the territory. At the start of the school year, FirstBank contributed monies to Addelita Cancryn Jr. High School to help fund office equipment, a portable PA system and classroom lecterns.
Also in 2005, FirstBank subsidiary First Express, provided funding to Charles H. Emanuel Elementary School for the purchase of office and kitchen equipment.
In December 2003, the Students First at FirstBank program was launched in public elementary schools to teach students basic banking knowledge and how to develop a habit of saving. In the program, has which has been initiated at 21 schools in the territory, students gain experience with saving and are given the opportunity to open their own savings account with a minimum of $5.
"Directing resources to the public schools is where we believe we can make a huge impact in the community," said Karen Sprauve, FirstBank V.I. community reinvestment officer. "We are helping to prepare the next generation for the future by supporting the essence of their educational foundation."