A student-led technology initiative recently provided free laptops to several families at Sudley Elementary School, making a meaningful impact across Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS). The effort is part of the Virginia Student Training and Refurbishment (VA STAR) program, led locally by Battlefield High School’s Bobcats Evaluating and Servicing Technology (BEST) Club.
Supported by SPARK, the education foundation for PWCS, and community donations, the program empowers high school students to refurbish used laptops and distribute them to families in need.
Stephanie Evers, the program’s lead teacher and department chair at Battlefield High, explained the goal: “These are computers they get to keep. Their whole family can use it — for schoolwork, job applications, or accessing benefits.”
“You’re giving people a tool to help them in the future. It’s a life-changing experience,” shared Rebecca Bolles, principal at Sudley Elementary. “The kids were excited, and the parents were grateful. It’s going to help them come together over their child’s education.”
Each year, program organizers coordinate with VA STAR and State Senator Danica Roem to identify schools in need. This year, 40 laptops were donated across four elementary schools: Innovation, Sudley, West Gate, and Yorkshire.
Sunday Magonyi, a parent, expressed his appreciation. “I feel very grateful. We are going to utilize it to help with homework and anything academically inclined.”
Ilene, a freshman at Battlefield and former Sudley student, said her younger sister, a fourth grader, was thrilled to receive a laptop. “She was smiling and excited,” Ilene said. “It’s a big deal for kids to get something like this.”
The program also leaves a lasting impression on the high school students who volunteer. “It feels really good because I’m not just helping somebody — I’m kind of changing their future,” said Ramon Rodriguez, a junior at Battlefield.
As technology becomes increasingly essential, programs like VA STAR are helping bridge the digital divide — one family at a time.