Essay contest focuses kids on technology use

ALLENTOWN — Families who write about the impact technology has had on learning, both at home and school, have a chance to win some of the latest entertainment gadgets on the market.

Cablevision's Power to Learn education initiative is celebrating its 10th anniversary of supporting K-12 education in the tri-state region through technology with "The Power to Learn Optimum Technology Makeover" essay contest, according to a Cablevision press release.

A nationally recognized education program, Power to Learn reaches over one million students, parents and teachers annually and each year serves as an educational resource at the forefront of technology-enabled learning. Beyond the classroom, Power to Learn also provides services to approximately 500 public libraries.

Locally, Power to Learn has benefited the Upper Freehold Regional Elementary/ Middle School and the Allentown High School. The program also serves the Monmouth County Library System and Biotechnology High School in Freehold Township.

John Bickham, Cablevision's president of cable and communications, said Power to Learn began 10 years ago as a means of using state-of-the-art technology to enrich learning in school and at home and to empower the digital generation.

"While our mission remains the same, what has changed in 10 years is the scope of technology at our disposal and the growing number of schools and libraries benefiting from our services," Bickham said. "Cablevision is pleased to offer this significant resource and remains committed to providing children with the best skills and opportunities for the future."

For the contest, families are invited to submit an essay of 500 words or less focused on technology's significant impact on learning, both at home and at school. Five families in Cablevision's service area will win the grand prize of a complete home technology makeover that includes a 42- inch HDTV, an Apple MacBook, an iPod touch and more. All prizes will be personally delivered and installed by Optimum.

Essays will be judged on originality and creativity by a panel of judges. The contest will end May 4.

More information on entering the "The Power to Learn Optimum Technology Makeover" essay contest is available at www.powertolearn.com/techmakeover.