Polk Education Foundation Awards Laptops to 60 Graduating Seniors Through AT&T’s Digital Divide ?AT&T’s Initiative

The Polk Education Foundation helped transform the futures of 60 graduating seniors from Polk 
County Public Schools by awarding them brand-new laptops, sleeves, chargers, and
headphones. This initiative was made possible through AT&T’s recent $30,000 contribution to help 
bridge the digital divide for students pursuing higher education.

To be selected, students first applied for Foundation scholarships. Using established criteria, staff 
identified 60 students who then completed required virtual training focused on digital citizenship 
and online safety. Upon completion, students were invited to a reception Tuesday night, where they 
received their devices from Polk Education Foundation Board Chair and AT&T Regional Director,
Matt Mucci. Mucci handed each student their laptop and asked about their high school, future 
college, and career plans.

Students expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity. Genesis, a senior planning to major in STEM, 
said, "I am grateful for this laptop. Some of the programs I will need for science labs cannot even be 
opened on a cellphone. This reward guarantees that I will have an easier way to study in college."
This initiative builds on AT&T’s long history of supporting Polk County Public Schools. Since 2009, 
AT&T has contributed more than $140,000 to the Foundation, supporting STEM Success Grants and 
other programs that expand opportunities for students.

Foundation Executive Director Tracy Porter said, "This grant from AT&T is a prime example of the 
power of philanthropy in education and the critical role it can play in student success. As grateful as 
I am for this generous gift from AT&T, I was so moved by the genuine appreciation of the students 
that they expressed to Matt before, during, and after the event.”

Matt Mucci added, "Empowering students and reducing the digital divide are at the core of AT&T's 
commitment to our communities. Tuesday night was a time to celebrate some amazing high school seniors in Polk County.

Contact for More Info
Lauren Morrish
Polk Education Foundation
863-534-0519, Ext: 203