Free tech lab now open

Willamalane Park and Recreation District unveiled a new student technology lab at Bob Keefer Center (250 S 32nd St, Springfield, OR 97478). The student technology lab is located in the main lobby and includes several laptops. It is open to any Springfield Public School student. 

This project was funded through a grant from the Department of Education with strong support from former Congressman Defazio and Senators Merkley and Wyden. School-age students now have free, convenient access to laptops equipped with the Microsoft Office suite and the SPS online portal so they can work on school assignments in an accessible and supervised environment. To access these computers, students simply present their student ID to Willamalane's front desk staff. The computers are available during regular business hours and are always free for student use.

Additionally, Willamalane has portable devices that will facilitate the integration of STEAM programming at remote locations. These devices will allow Willamalane staff to add new learning opportunities to their early childhood and youth programs. 

“Thanks to our close relationship with Springfield Public Schools, we learned that creating an accessible space with reliable access to technology would benefit many students in our community. With the support of Peter Defazio and Senators Merkley and Wyden, we were able to get this lab completely built using federal grant funds,” said Michael Wargo, Willamalane Executive Director. “Now, our recreation team can get creative and bring new educational elements to our youth programs,” Wargo continued.