Brookside, Meadow and Steele PTAs Awarded $1500 Grant to Host “Ready, Tech, Go!” Workshop

In an era where digital literacy and online safety are paramount, the Brookside, Meadow and Steele Elementary School PTAs recently hosted the "Ready, Tech, Go!" workshop. The educational experience was part of the larger “Ready, Tech, Go!” initiative launched by the National PTA and AT&T. Additionally, major technology companies and organizations, such as TikTok, Google, and YouTube, helped to support the national initiative, emphasizing the significance of addressing crucial issues related to the digital age, such as online safety, mental wellness, and healthy lifestyles.

Through the “Ready, Tech, Go!” initiative, over 200 local PTAs, including Brookside, Meadow and Steele, were selected to host workshops for students and their families. A total of over $1 million in funding was awarded to support these efforts across the nation. Brookside, Meadow and Steele’s workshop were made possible through the $1,500 grant the PTAs received in December following an application process. With the funds, both schools were able to deliver an engaging, in-person experience that equipped Baldwin families with the necessary knowledge and tools for safe and responsible screen use. In addition, twenty-five laptops were awarded by AT&T to Brookside, Meadow and Steele to be distributed to families in need, helping to bridge the digital divide.

During the workshop, parents were able to be fully engaged in discussions and interactive learning activities due to prearranged childcare provided onsite by Baldwin High School National Honor Society volunteers. The demonstrations focused on understanding screen readiness, featuring tools that assess readiness and promote online safety, along with practical tips for establishing a healthy digital environment at home and navigating meaningful conversations with children about good digital habits. Grant funding was also used to provide participants with refreshments and tech-inspired gift bags. 

Brookside PTA president, Ms. Sendy Jean-Louis, remarked how helpful the program was to families. “As a parent, I'm always looking for ways to support my child's growth and make the best choices for them. Screen readiness and safety is more important than ever now. I feel like this program better prepared me to approach safe use of devices with my 9-year-old.”

In addition to Ms. Jean-Louis’ involvement, members of the Brookside PTA slate who were instrumental in making this program possible included Ms. Kimberly Nelson, Ms. Latoya Duckett, and Ms. Danielle Blanchard-St. Louime, while Steele’s PTA President Mrs. Yinka Adegbenle applied for the grant earlier in the year and her team helped host the event on a Friday evening.

Overall, the workshop not only equipped Baldwin families with the tools for safe online use but also strengthened community bonds.

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