T.E.C.H. Program

The T.E.C.H. (Technology Education for the Community and the Home) Program is a free, four-week initiative designed to provide underserved adults and families with essential computer and technology skills. Thanks to grant funding from the Public Library Association and AT&T, and facilitated by the Paul Sawyier Public Library, this program offers participants access to Digital Learn modules covering foundational topics such as computer basics (Windows), internet basics, basic email (Gmail), cybersecurity, and video conferencing (Zoom). Aimed at reaching those who are most in need, the program specifically targets community members enrolled in Thorn Hill Education Center services, which support adults in obtaining their GED, developing language skills, supporting family literacy, and more. The program will be limited to 15 participants, who will receive laptops for use during the course. Classes will be held once a week for 2 hours, combining instruction with hands-on practice exercises. At the end of the program, participants will receive a certificate of completion and their very own laptop, provided they meet all course objectives. By equipping participants with valuable digital skills, the T.E.C.H. Program helps bridge the digital divide, enabling individuals to access greater educational and employment opportunities in an increasingly technology-driven world. 

*DigitalLearn.org Workshops and Modules were created by the Public Library Association, with support from AT&T.

A key goal of the T.E.C.H. Program is to equip participants with the digital skills and tools they need to not only enhance their own abilities but also to share that knowledge within their households. To support this, participants who successfully complete the program will receive a free laptop. However, please note that if a participant does not fulfill all program requirements, they may forfeit their incentive.

Franklin County adults aged 18 and older are welcome to apply; however, preference will be given to applicants who are currently enrolled in any services offered by the Thorn Hill Education Center. Each application is considered on behalf of the household, meaning only one member per household may apply. Applicants must be able to fully commit to the four-week program, with classes scheduled on Wednesday evenings from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Dates to be determined.

Applications may be submitted virtually or on paper. To access the virtual application, click HERE. Paper applications will be available upon request at the Paul Sawyier Public Library and Thorn Hill Education Center. Applications will be accepted beginning February 1st, 2025. The deadline to apply will be March 21st, 2025.

For questions concerning the application process, please contact Dalton Bennett at 502-352-2665 ext. 106 or Dalton.bennett@pspl.org.

If you need assistance with the application process, please feel free to reach out to Dalton Bennett at 502-352-2665, ext. 106, or via email at Dalton.Bennett@pspl.org. Please note that support is available only for navigating and accessing the application itself. Neither Thorn Hill Education Center staff nor Paul Sawyier Public Library staff can provide guidance on how to answer the application questions. This is to ensure that your responses are unique and personal to you. View the rubric HERE to learn how applications will be assessed and scored.

Due to funding limitations, the T.E.C.H. Program can support a maximum of 15 participants. After submitting an application, applicants will be notified of their status during the week of March 24th–28th, 2025. If the number of applicants exceeds 15, a review process will be implemented to assess the needs of each applicant. The program is committed to prioritizing households facing the greatest challenges, so it is essential that applicants provide detailed information about their circumstances, motivations, and goals in the application. This will help ensure that those most in need are given the opportunity to participate.

Applicants will be notified of their status via phone during the week of March 24th-March 28th, 2025. If you are selected, and we are unable to reach you after two attempts, your spot may be passed on to another applicant.

Applicants selected for the program will receive additional details about upcoming meetings and class dates. Please note that this information will be provided only after selections have been made and will not be available during the application process or prior to the start of classes.

Childcare services may be offered at Thorn Hill Education Center during class hours depending on demand. Please indicate in the application if you will need childcare services.