John Muir Middle School Gets New Computer Lab

students now have an enticing reason to stick around after the bell rings — a brand new computer lab to be used for after-school programs. 

On Wednesday, the school celebrated the launch of its new computer lab funded by GTECH Corporation, a Rhode Island-based gaming technology firm, in an official ribbon-cutting ceremony. This is the 157th After School Advantage computer lab GTECH has opened nationwide since 1999.

The lab will be used for instruction during school hours, but also for after-school programs and the school's Saturday Academy.

The GTECH After School Advantage program is a nationwide community investment program that equips non-profit community agencies and public schools with computer labs. The goal is to help bridge the so-called digital divide that keeps some children from accessing the vast range of Internet and technology-based opportunities available today. 

Over 100 teachers, students, parents, city council members and GTECH employees were in attendance for the event that took place outside the new computer lab. The ceremony was kicked off by the John Muir Middle School Jazz Band, followed by an introduction by the school’s principal Belen Magers.

“I’m really speechless at this point,” said Magers. “All the time, tears, sweat, headaches, phone calls, late nights and early mornings were well worth every minute spent in preparation for this event.”

Magers expressed her gratitude towards Assemblywoman Mary Hayashi, who was introduced as the “Guest of Honor” due to all the work she put in to getting the computer lab built.

“Without her, and without her putting San Leandro out there to our business partners, and without her thinking about the schools in the district, we wouldn’t have this event,” said Magers.

Hayashi was the first to approach GTECH when she learned the corporation had a program aimed at helping underserved communities. She chose John Muir Middle School after reaching out to Jon Sherr, the president of the San Leandro Teacher’s Association, who gave her a list of potential schools. After GTECH employees did a site visit, they thought John Muir would be the perfect place.

“I really wanted to help the San Leandro school district,” said Hayashi. “Access to technology is our future and we want our students to have the best technology available to be successful in their academics.”

Some 35 students attend the current after school program at John Muir, with up to 80 students attending the school’s Saturday Academy, according to a news release.  The Saturday Academy targets students struggling in English/Language Arts and Math. 

On average, GTECH provides schools with a grant of $15,000, but the company spent much more for the lab at John Muir — around $45,000. The lab includes 20 Dell computers with software, printers, a scanner, desks, chairs, electrical wiring and volunteer hours. The San Leandro Unified School District is planning to add 16 extra computers and furniture to the computer lab.

“Projects like this help to bridge the digital divide,” said Hayashi. “Information is used to change lives, communities and even countries. By providing access in this setting, we will see the meaningful benefits of providing students with the skills they need for a successful future.”

GTECH’s Scott Gunn took the podium after Hayashi to thank her for helping put their plan in motion.

“Mary Hayashi is a tireless advocate for children,” said Gunn. “I know from my experience in working with Assemblywoman Hayashi that she is a committed and serious public servant. I’m also proud to be a part of a company that puts so much effort into community involvement.”

After a brief speech by San Leandro Superintendent Cindy Cathey, students from the John Muir Glee Club performed two songs. The audience was then lead into the new computer lab by Magers, Hayashi and Gunn for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“GTECH told us to dream big, and we did,” said Magers. “Everyday we kept adding on to our wish list. GTECH just took in everything we wanted and made it possible.”