Vice-Mayor Oliver G. Gilbert III, Seat 6, Miami Gardens, presented 10 new laptop computers to graduating seniors from Miami Norland Senior High School and 10 new laptop computers to graduating seniors from Miami Carol City Senior High School. The Kiwanis of Miami Gardens, the Miami Dolphins, and Empowerment Tutoring, partnered with Gilbert to support his commitment to high academic standards for Miami Gardens’ students. This initiative was designed to reward academic achievement by students who will be attending college in the fall. Students at the respective high schools were awarded with the laptop computers at the schools’ award ceremonies held during the last week of the May 2012.
“In this very difficult economic climate, those with the least amount of financial resources seem to suffer the most. I’m sure you will agree with me that while most may consider a computer a fixture in most homes, it remains a luxury for many financially challenged families. The computers to be provided are laptops, and will benefit these students at home and as they continue their academic endeavors,” said Gilbert.
Students selected to receive a new computer were identified by their respective high schools as most deserving of the rewards for the academic excellence they exhibited during their 2011-2012 high school matriculation. One of those students is 17 year-old Courtney Johnson from Miami Carol City Senior High School who will attend Northeastern University in the fall. Johnson, with a grade point average of 6.58 is a recipient of several scholarships, and was named valedictorian of his 2012 graduating class.
“I really worked hard for the honors I’ve received. I dreamed of going to college, and I’m finally doing it. It’s nice to know that the community does celebrate my achievements along with the achievements of the other students that work hard to make that same dream a reality. I’m thankful for the computer and the people who cared enough to give them to us. It’s one less expense my family has to think about and it’s one of the most important resources I’ll need as a college student,” said Johnson.
Vice-Mayor Gilbert and the businesses supporting the initiative believe there are exceptional students living and attending school in Miami Gardens and this program acknowledges the ones who are going above and beyond. These are the future leaders of tomorrow and it’s important that the community provides as much support as possible to help these young men and women achieve their academic and personal goals. There is a lot that can be done, but for now, a new computer is definitely a good start.
To learn more about the initiative or to support the initiative by sponsoring a new laptop computer for a student, please contact Hilary Marshall at hmarshall@miamigardens- fl.gov or by phone at (305) 622- 8000 ext. 2793.
