Covy Moore/Rocky View Publishing

Airdrie youth Avery Hickerson, 13, and Dylan Zeemel, 13, try out some of the computers in the new Roger's Raising the Grade Technology Centre at the Boys and Girls Club of Airdrie, Nov. 13. Airdrie is one of 16 clubs taking part in the program, which saw The Centre outfitted with 16 computers for youth to use to increase their academic skills, and assist in raising high school graduation rates and access to post-secondary eduction.

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Technology centre opens at Boys and Girls Club of Airdrie

The Boys and Girls Club of Airdrie will soon deliver a new education program to area youth.

Rogers Raising the Grade is a national program designed to help youth overcome educational challenges by increasing academic skills, high school graduation rates and access to post-secondary education.

Airdrie’s club is one of 16 taking part in the program and recently received a technology centre at The Centre, located in the Ron Ebbesen Arena, complete with 16 computer programs, courtesy of Roger’s Youth Fund.

“This is very exciting,” said Tanya McCagherty Roger’s raising the grade coordinator, adding both staff and members of the club are excited.

“This is an extension of the community that wants you to succeed.”

Youth in grades 8 to 12 will be invited to take part in Raising the Grade by registering for the program.

Participants will have access to a special website full of resources, top-of-the-line computers and coaches.

Avery Hickerson, 13, is excited about the new technology centre.

“It’s pretty important because it gives people a certain outlet... to use technology,” he said. “I have access to better research here. Technology is a big deal right now.”

McCagherty said staff will also provide opportunities for socializing and fun for those who take part in the program. Youth who are involved in Raising the Grade for at least two years will receive a $1,000 scholarship towards a post-secondary institute.

“It (will) allow youth to explore personal interests, receive homework support and connect with mentors and tutors and interact with peers increase their digital literacy and plan for post secondary,” said McCagherty, adding Raising the Grade will be an extension of the club’s other offerings.

According to McCagherty, the program has been in the works for about a year and Rogers has provided a retro-themed study space complete with computers, software and a website full of resources.

McCagherty encourages Airdrie youth to check out the new technology centre as well as the club’s other offerings.

“(The Boys and Girls Club of Airdrie) is a fun place to hang out,” she said.

“We want youth to know they are welcome here, it is a place you can come and get some extra help with people who want to help you.”

For more information about the new program, visit www.raisingthegrade.ca or contact McCagherty at tmccagherty@bgca.com