The United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore Tech 4 Teens program donated backpacks full of school supplies and an HP Chromebook laptop to 9 graduates of the Horizons Salisbury program. Dr. Mark Edney and Pam Gregory made the presentation last week on behalf of the United Way.

Some graduates do not have computers in their homes.

“These students are beginning high school this fall and because of the Tech 4 Teens program, they are ready,” said Dr. Harlan Eagle, Executive Director of Horizons Salisbury, “We are thrilled and the students are extremely appreciative of the United Way of The Lower Eastern Shore and its partners.”

Tech 4 Teens is a program made possible by Perdue Farms, Inc. and Vantage Point Solutions Group in Salisbury. The program awards laptops to students with a demonstrated commitment to academic excellence and equips them with the tools they need to be successful.

Six of the nine graduates have been in the Horizons program since kindergarten.  All students participate in the academic enrichment program that includes math, reading, science, social studies, STEM and art integration to prevent summer learning loss, while providing field trips to enhance learning.

As these students embark on their journey at their respective high schools in Wicomico County, Horizons takes a different role. Each student is offered a mentor, tutoring, SAT /ACT and FAFSA support, and opportunities to tour various colleges and universities.

Horizons Salisbury is a transformational, community-centered education program working to close the achievement gap for low-income children, kindergarten through 12th grade, attending Wicomico County Public Schools. In Wicomico County, 1 out 4 children live in poverty.