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Since 2006, Vista Learning has been committed to removing barriers to education by providing technology directly to students who need it most. Nearly two decades later, that mission continues to make a meaningful impact across our communities.

December marked Vista Learning’s 39th biannual Awards Ceremony, celebrating another important milestone:
1,411 computers donated since the program began in 2006
120 scholarships awarded since scholarships were added in 2019

This December, 50 students across Will, Kendall, and Grundy counties received computers to support their academic success and future opportunities.

  • Will County: 25 students received computers at a ceremony hosted by Troy School District 30-C. Special thanks to Jeffrey Peterson, Director of Student & Family Services, for helping coordinate the event and welcoming students and families.

  • Kendall County: 15 students were recognized at the Old Kendall County Courthouse.

  • Grundy County: 10 students received computers during a ceremony at the Grundy County Building.

Both the Kendall and Grundy County ceremonies were emceed by Hon. Meghan Martin, Regional Superintendent, Grundy/Kendall County ROE 24.

Each computer represents more than just technology—it represents opportunity, access, and a stronger path forward for local students. Vista Learning remains proud to continue investing in the success of students throughout Will, Kendall, and Grundy counties.

Access to technology opens the door to opportunity. Every computer we place in a student’s hands helps remove a barrier and moves them one step closer to achieving their goals.

 

Jay LinksmanExecutive Director - Vista Learning

Computer Award & Scholarship Ceremonies

This last December, representatives from Vista Learning presented the laptops to the student recipients at ceremonies at each county, including:

- Tuesday, December 9 / Will County

Troy District Office (District Board Room), 5800 Theodore St., Plainfield, IL 60586

Laptops awarded: 25 

- Wednesday, December 10 / Grundy County

Regional Office of Education (ROE), 1320 Union Street, Morris, IL 60450

Laptops awarded: 10

- Thursday, December 11 / Kendall County

Regional Office of Education, Hist. Court House, 109 W. Ridge St., Yorkville, IL 60560

Laptops awarded: 15

When students have the tools they need to learn, they gain the confidence and opportunity to succeed in school and beyond.

 

Hon. Meghan MartinRegional Superintendent, Grundy/Kendall County ROE 24

When a community invests in its students, it invests in its future. These computers represent opportunity, confidence, and a pathway to success.

 

Jeff PetersonDirector of Student & Family Services - Troy CCSD 30-C

Donating Computers Since 2006

Twice a year Vista Learning asks principals and district administrators to nominate recipients based on need, potential and other criteria. Each refurbished, business-class laptop comes with a licensed operating system, MS Office and other software, and one-year warranty coverage and tech support.

These donations provide students (and often family members) who would otherwise not have access to computers at home, the ability to engage in school (and perhaps work) activities, complete homework, research and access resources, and much more – all of which help to close the digital divide. 

College Scholarships & Computers

Since 2019, Vista Learning has provided 120 $2,000 college scholarship and a free, refurbished, laptop to graduating seniors in need from high schools in Kendall, Grundy and Will Counties.

Classroom Supplies

Through its newest program, Vista Learning provides two $500 grants every month for classroom supplies and materials to teachers around the United States who have achieved their district’s highest evaluation rating using the EvaluWise® software.

About Vista Learning

Founded in 2004, Vista Learning, NFP is an Illinois-based educational and charitable organization focused on improving education. It has created, and sells and supports, the EvaluWise® software – which makes staff evaluations more manageable, effective and meaningful for administrators, teachers and staff. The organization serves 493 school district in 16 states. Vista Learning awards laptop computers and scholarships to students nominated by participating schools in Grundy, Kendall and Will Counties in Illinois. To date, Vista learning has donated 1,411 computers and 120 scholarships.