Aug 23, 2011

Schools facing budget cuts and a steadily declining economy look to Computer Explorers, a national technology education franchise, to outsource technology programs and save money.

With technology, change is inevitable -- which is why schools are trusting Computer Explorers to keep students up-to-speed on the most current platforms possible.

Often a less expensive alternative to hiring a staff specialist, Computer Explorers allows schools to cut costs, keep kids interested in core academic subjects and encourages teachers and staff to incorporate the use of technology into their daily curriculum.

"More and more schools are realizing that it is far more cost effective to outsource computer classes and technology programs to us than to staff it internally," said Deb Evans, President of Computer Explorers. "We work with the entire range of children from preschool through high school and our programs help extend the range of learning."

At St. Mel Catholic School in Fair Oaks, California, a Computer Explorers teacher is on site three days a week, integrating technology into lesson plans and working with students in the school's computer lab. The same teacher develops and conducts staff training sessions so teachers can get the most out of technology tools and help their students do the same.

The in-school arrangement, called the Integrated Technology Resource Program, not only provides a cost-effective way for schools to stay up-to-date but also gives our local owners another line of business build.

Schools like St. Mel love it.

"It is a very sound program, and parents are always impressed not only with the computer lab itself but the quality of work that the students produce in it," says St. Mel Principal, Janet Nagel. "Computer Explorers is constantly upgrading and constantly passing on information to its local owners, schools and teachers."

Computer Explorers' franchise model also includes technology after-school classes and summer camps that include Lego robotics, blogging, digital movie making and other fun, tech-based curriculum.

"The need for Computer Explorers continues to grow," said Evans. "The rapid pace of technological change and its impact on teaching and learning means we'll keep growing for a long time to come."