StandardAero donates computers to Mary Blount
By Matthew Stewart | (matts@thedailytimes.com)
An international company has donated much-needed technology to a local school.
StandardAero, which has a local plant located in Big Springs Park, has donated 30 computers to Mary Blount Elementary School. The adopt-a-school sponsor donated three- to four-year computers.
The company recently updated 100 computers, said Mark Ratliff, director of human resources. Officials are making 40 computers available to employees for a suggested $5 donation to Blount County Relay For Life, 30 computers to Mary Blount Elementary School and the remainder will be recycled.
StandardAero’s donation is part of Mary Blount Elementary School’s efforts to modernize technology. The school was last furnished with technology when it opened in 2001.
Mary Blount’s educators and PTO (Parent Teacher Organization) made a decision last year to combine fundraising efforts and earmark money for technology. They raised about $32,000 in the 2011-12 school year.
The PTO purchased 23 projectors, 22 iPads and six Apple TVs, and school officials have purchased additional Apple TVs and iPads. Mary Blount used the technology to create interactive space for students.
Every classroom teacher has interactive space, and the campus is 100 percent wireless saturation.
Last year, Principal Jesse Robinette and parent Matt Webb also acquired 120 free computers in Nashville. PTO covered the rental and gas costs.
Currently, every classroom is outfitted with two computers.
StandardAero has supported Mary Blount Elementary School for the past seven years. The company organizes three annual school events, delivering donuts and milk to staff and students, hosting a student choir concert for company employees and donating earmarked funds for priority projects, such as landscaping and outdoor benches.
StandardAero became involved through a Blount County Chamber of Commerce initiative, Ratliff said. “We thought it was a great idea at the time, and we still think it’s a great idea.”
