Burlington Chamber of Commerce Supports BHS in Moving Technology Forward

big news is the , a sleek tablet whose size will help reduce the amount of weighted down books bags and save the future of our children's shoulders and backs. It will also introduce new ways of learning for students in grades 9-12. The tablet, instructions, and insurance information were handed out over the past few weeks during a . The only thing missing were protective covers. Enter the (BACC).

A nonprofit association built to enhance and strengthen Burlington businesses, the BACC took an interest in helping students enhance and strengthen their education by donating iPad sleeves.

Sonia Rollins, BACC Chairman and member for the past 8 years, is also a member of the 1:1 Committee for BHS. Rollins discovered the need for iPad sleeves while attending a parent participation meeting and thought it would be a great project for the business community to show their support toward the education of Burlington students. She introduced the idea to the BACC Board of Directors and the decision, which was made late spring, was supported by the entire board.

"Being a part of this process allows BACC to become involved with a segment of the community we may otherwise not be in contact with. Because we see ourselves as part of Burlington and are invested in what happens within the community, this was a great way to show support to a forward thinking project," said Rollins.

The school department described their idea of a sleeve cover and Rollins put together a design according to the description. She also collaborated with Mike Champoux, BACC member and business owner of PROforma in Wilmington.

"Mike does great work. I explained the concept of the sleeve and he was so impressed that he not only worked on the style of the sleeve with me, but he became one of the sponsors," said Rollins. 

According to Rollins, BACC is quite pleased with the design. 

"It reflects a partnership that BACC hopes to foster with the school department, students at the forefront and the Chamber supporting them in the background," she said, adding, "The Chamber sees the school committee and its administration as a group that is constantly moving forward and preparing the future workforce with the tools and the knowledge they need to succeed.  BACC is proud to be part of that progress."

Said BHS Principal Patrick Larkin, "We are fortunate to have the support of the Chamber of Commerce for this important initiative. The Chamber's slogan states that Burlington is "Where Technology Goes To Work." Thanks to the support of the Chamber we can add "Where Technology Goes To School" as well. We are excited that Chamber has partnered with us and we will look forward to other opportunities as we move forward."

BACC and BHS wish to thank the main sponsors of the BHS protective sleeve: PROforma, , , and .