Connect2Compete Adds Quality Computer Systems to Bibb Schools Campaign

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Bibb County Schools is once again focusing on technology to enhance kids’ education, so they’re teaming up with a local business to make computers and internet access affordable for low-income families.

It’s part of the Connect2Compete campaign, which just completed its pilot program.

Karen Deaton finds it hard to keep up with the technology at Rutland Middle School, where her granddaughter attends.

“I don’t own a computer, and so I’ve been wanting to get one–but you know, it’s expensive!,” says Deaton.

But Wednesday, Connect2Compete and Bibb County Schools announced a partnership with Quality Computer Systems, so families can get more affordable technology in their home. School officials say the initiative helps solve a big problem.

“Probably a third of our students don’t have access to the internet; if you’d have asked this question five years ago it probably would’ve been about half,” says Interim Superintendent Dr. Steve Smith.

The district teamed up with Cox Communications last fall to give internet access to low-income families for just $9.95 a month.

“I’m pleased to announce that our community was a shining example in that pilot program for Connect2Compete,” says Lynn Murphey, Market Leader for Cox Communications in Middle Georgia.

“We kind of level the playing field because we make it affordable for everyone in the community to be connected to the internet,” Dr. Smith told 41NBC.

Now, they’re taking the program one step further, and that’s exciting for people like Karen Deaton.