STUDENTS AT LOCKE HIGH SCHOOL in Los Angeles went "Back to School With Technology" this week as they received 40 new computers courtesy of the federal government.

On Wednesday, Lani Hancock, western regional director for the U.S. Department of Education, donated the computers on behalf of U.S. Secretary of Education Richard Riley. Riley, who visited Locke earlier in the year was motivated to seek out a remedy for the school whose students he said have suffered from the inequities of the technological revolution.

The Jordan-Locke Cluster’s business partners were also present for the event to show their support for bringing technology equity to Watts.

Jerry Cronin, technology director for the cluster said he is seeking additional donations of surplus computers from the public and private sectors for the 25 K-12 schools and for its unique LINCT program. LINCT brings technology into the community by giving parents computer training for twelve weeks. At the end of the training, community members then earn the computer on which they were trained which they can take home to further enhance their skills and those skills of their children.

Locke High School is a member of the Jordan-Locke Cluster of schools in the Los Angeles Unified School District and has received national recognition for its academics. One of Locke’s academy students was interviewed by Vice President Gore last spring to discuss innovative uses of the Internet in the classroom. Locke has also received recognition for its digital video program with its students producing public service videos for non-profit organizations such as Mad Dads which seeks out peaceful solutions to Watts’ social problems.