The Winner of the HP Magic Giveaway!

After several really tough and gut wrenching hours of reading and viewing everyone's entries (multiple times) we have decided that the HP Magic Giveaway prize should be awarded to user BIGANDLIDDY. Here is her story: I have taught High School Business classes for almost eighteen years now. My school has a diverse population and more almost three-quarters of them are eligible for free or reduced lunch. We can’t afford to keep up with the technology that our students need to be exposed to. Many of my students do not have access to technology at home. When I heard about HP’s Magic Giveaway, I was so excited because I felt this would help my students in such a major way. Imagine $6,000 in HP technology for my classroom. I know I certainly could use a new computer. This summer I plan to take some online courses to get my graduate degree in Special Education. With so many of our students mainstreamed into the regular education classes I feel that furthering my education won’t just help me but help the students that need the most help. Of course I could also use the computer to create interactive and exciting lesson plans. I would share my computer with my husband who recently lost his job. He is an individual who is listed as a statistic in the mass layoffs you’ve been reading about in the paper. What some people forget is that every statistic is a person first and foremost. He would be able to use the computer to research job openings and compose cover letters and resumes that will hopefully get him re-employed. My youngest son is now in the Army and getting ready to leave for Iraq. Over the past several years I’ve had students leave for the same destination. It is for this reason I have been involved with the Adopt a Soldier Program. We send a goody box to soldiers once a month as well as cards and letters. I would love to gift him with one of the computers so he can keep in touch with friends and family. I consider myself a compassionate person. I’m involved with projects like “Adopt a Soldier” and “Adopt a Family for the Holidays.” Even though money is tight I know that I have things that matter like time and special talents which are appreciated by people in need. Thank you again for having this great giveaway.