Easley, Michael. Press Release, 2004-11-01, Gov. Easley, IBM Announce High-Tech Donation: More At Four Pre-Kindergarten Classrooms Receive 60 Child-Friendly Computers

State of North Carolina Office of the Governor Michael F. Easley Governor Release: IMMEDIATE Date: 11/1/2004 Contact: Cooper Bratton Phone: (919) 733-5612 GOV. EASLEY, IBM ANNOUNCE HIGH-TECH DONATION More At Four Pre-Kindergarten Classrooms Receive 60 Child-Friendly Computers Raleigh - Gov. Mike Easley today announced that IBM Corporation is donating 60 Young Explorer computers to More at Four classrooms across the state. "In the last three years, IBM has donated more than $850,000 in equipment and training, including more than 380 computers, to More at Four,” said Easley. “I am proud that IBM is partnering with our More at Four pre-kindergarten classrooms again this year. IBM is investing in our young students and their future by enhancing our state’s pre-kindergarten program with child-friendly technology.” The 60 computers are being distributed to More at Four classrooms in 35 counties based on need. The equipment includes educational software and colorful, child-sized plastic furniture. IBM is also funding training sessions for teachers to assist them in effectively integrating the use of these computers into their pre-kindergarten curricula. "Over the past three years we have had an excellent partnership with Governor Easley, the More at Four initiative and the public school districts throughout North Carolina,” said Nicole Pride, IBM manager of community relations in Research Triangle Park. “Our goals are one in the same, to reach the students who fall into the 'digital divide' category and give them an edge by introducing them to technology and learning opportunities early in their lives." The More at Four pre-kindergarten program is North Carolina’s state-funded pre-kindergarten program to ensure that at-risk four-year-olds start school with the necessary skills for success. More at Four is serving at least 12,000 children this year in 100 North Carolina counties.