TECH CORPS Texas

Imagine a technically literate society, a globally competitive workforce, life-long learners, active and involved citizens, and equal opportunity learning. That is the vision of TECH CORPS Texas, and we’ve chosen K-12 schools and youth-serving organizations as the vehicle through which to achieve it.

TECH CORPS Texas is a Houston-based 501(c)3 social enterprise dedicated to enhancing education through technology in order to help ensure that today’s students complete their education and are prepared to complete in the global workforce

TECH CORPS Texas is the only program of its kind in the state. We work to accomplish our goals through the implementation of quality technology education programs on school campuses throughout Texas, and through the redeployment of quality refurbished computers to schools, organizations, and individuals, including our proud military veterans. Since our launch in May, 2002, TECH CORPS Texas programs, computers, and/or volunteers have been in more than 60 schools statewide and redployed more than 3000 computers into schools, organizations, and to individuals.

We invite you to learn more about our organization by clicking the links on your left, and thank you for stopping by!

On October 7th, TECH CORPS Texas staff and volunteers helped deliver 65 newly refurbished computers for distribution throughout the 36 classrooms at recognized IB World School, Mark Twain Elementary in the Houston ISD.  Provided through the Computers For Kids program local technology non-profit TECH CORPS Texas was able to save Mark Twain Elementary tens of thousands of dollars.

“Low price, high quality computers are what schools need,” said newly appointed Principal John Baker, “too many students graduate without basic computer skills, because the schools cannot afford to keep up.” Keyboarding, word processing, and researching skills are at risk as the computer workstation quality deteriorates. “This is a very nice school,” adds Principal Baker, “but the technology is not up to date.” With some classrooms boasting smart boards and projectors it was a large priority to trade the computers in triage fashion, with the oldest and most problematic units being replaced first.

The recipients of the freshly refurbished computers, students in grades k-5, were overjoyed at the prospect of new additions to their technology workstations. Interactive computer games are an easy way to get students excited about learning. “We use the computer every day. It is my most favorite station in the classroom,” said one second grade student. “We play math magician to help with addition. If you get all of the answers right, you can move to the next level,” he continued. When asked whether this game helped his classroom performance, he responded enthusiastically, “Yes! I always get good grades.”

“These kids are not power users,” said Principal John Baker, “and they don’t need a desktop computer the same way an adult would; however, there are certain operating standards we try to uphold.” “Of the many ways to use technology in the classroom at the elementary level,” he continued, “a computer is only useful to students and teachers if it has good internet capability and an up-to date operating system.” With most computers in the school still running Windows 98, it was time for an upgrade. Adds Principal Baker, "the differential paying a refurbishing fee for these reconditioned units versus buying new computers, is the same as a teachers salary and full benefits."

HOUSTON, Texas (September 23, 2009)-On the morning of Friday, September 11, more than 50 guests, players, and volunteers gathered at Houston’s Wildcat Golf Club to play in the 4^th annual TECH CORPS Texas Charity Golf Tournament.  This year’s tournament was staged as part of the Bytes & Birdies fundraising events which honored the contributions of Philamena and Arthur Baird in support of education.

The winning team, comprised of local golf writers including Todd Hveem of the Houston Chronicle, was presented with an award for their low score of 61 at a ceremony immediately following the tournament. Further recognition was given to Clay Rutan for winning the longest drive competition, and Scott Crain, winner of the closet to the pin contest. The tournament and awards ceremony were captured thanks to Ronnie Boswell and Shoots Photography.

Sponsors included Bud Light/Silver Eagle Distributors, Computer Tech, The Breakfast Klub, Turning Point Group, Floodbreak, Governor Mark White, Content Active, among others. All proceeds from the Bytes & Birdies tournament benefited TECH CORPS Texas, a local non-profit that supports technology education and provides low cost computers and technology services to underprivileged schools, community organizations, returning military veterans, and other individuals in need.

_{For more event photos, please click here.}