The Golden Leaf Foundation, which assists economically distressed and tobacco-dependent communities with economic development projects, has announced two grants totaling more than $3 million to provide laptop computers to six high schools in North Carolina.

The grants include $1.6 million to the Wilson County Public Schools and $1.4 million to five Learn and Earn Tech Ready high schools: Edgecombe County Early College High School and Macon County Early College High School, Nash Rocky Mount Early College High School, Rutherford Early College High School, and Hoke County Sandhoke Early College High School. SAS, a software company based in Cary, North Carolina, will provide laptops for teachers, digital projectors, and planning and professional development assistance. In total, the programs are expected to benefit more than 2,500 students.

"By leveraging corporate partnerships, emerging statewide initiatives, and the support of Golden LEAF, we can ensure that our graduates have access to [appropriate] tools, highly competent teachers, and adequate connectivity," said Larry E. Price, superintendent of schools in Wilson County. "The result will be graduates who are well-prepared, life-long learners who are ready to be successful, productive citizens in our global economy."