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Meemic Donates Chromebooks to Aid in Remote Learning



Meemic Insurance Company is responding to schools’ unprecedented need for technology by donating 250 Chromebook computers to three Michigan school districts: Hamtramck Public Schools (pictured), Beecher Community School District and the Muskegon Heights Public School Academy System.

Like many companies, Meemic has been looking for ways to help those affected by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Meemic was founded 70 years ago by teachers for teachers, so the choice seemed obvious: help the educational community.

Districts are making tough choices regarding the new school year. For many, remote learning will be the new normal for at least the near future as schools try to protect their students and teachers. But with inconsistent access to technology and the Internet, some districts are struggling to meet all their students’ needs.
“We knew we had to do something to directly help schools facing immediate obstacles and challenges,” said Matt Michalski, VP and Head of Meemic. “We looked for districts with the greatest need and where we could make the greatest impact.”

Funding previously earmarked for a 70th-anniversary contest for educators was redirected to this new initiative. Meemic was able to purchase the Chromebooks before they went on backorder nationwide, and the computers are being safely delivered to the Hamtramck, Beecher and Muskegon Heights school districts. Distribution was based on student population size, and Hamtramck will receive 170 Chromebooks, Beecher will get 45, and 35 will go to Muskegon Heights.

"The generous donation of 45 Chromebooks is a significant contribution to the educational future of priceless students in Beecher Community Schools,” said Dr. Marcus Davenport, superintendent of Beecher Community School District.  “The 45 computers have the potential to cover our entire enrollment of seventh-grade students. We are beyond blessed to continue our fight to place a device and Internet connectivity in the hands of each student before our official first day of virtual instruction to overcome our unprecedented COVID-19 reality.”

The Chromebook initiative joins other efforts by Meemic Insurance Company and The Meemic Foundation for the Future of Education to help educators and students. Meemic is also sponsoring providers of online learning, including the Ron Clark Academy’s online training sessions, Michigan Virtual’s free online student classes and professional development, as well as PBS and their robust library of online learning media.

In addition, The Meemic Foundation for the Future of Education has donated funds to several organizations that are partnering with school districts to make sure students still have reliable meals. The Foundation, in partnership with The Auto Club Group Foundation, also donated $35,000 in support of the Connected Futures initiative for students in the Detroit Public Schools District.

“As the school year progresses, Meemic will continue to look for ways to help the educational community,” Michalski said. “Meemic wouldn’t be where it is today without educators, and it’s our privilege to give back.”

For more information, visit Meemic.com/MeemicCares.