NBC Weatherman Al Roker made a stop in Maryland to not only check out an NFL game but also deliver a special gift to an area school.
Roker visited Digital Harbor High School in Baltimore. He rewarded students at the school, which is focused on technology, 1,400 laptops, and a free year of internet access.
Roker came to the school after hearing the story of Taiisha Swinton-Buck, who was named Maryland’s Principal of the Year for 2021. Principal Swinton-Buck and 100 excited students met with Rocker.
“I’m in disbelief, but I’m so grateful, I’m so humbled and especially blessed to have this opportunity with my students. For the world to see what great things are happening in Baltimore is inspiring for me to continue to do what I’m doing that Digital Harbor High School,” said Principal Taiisha Swinton-Buck.
The laptops are a part of The
Today Show’s “Once in a Lifetime” series, which shines a spotlight on people making a difference in cities hosting the NFL on NBC.The laptops and internet service donated come from NBCUniversal’s parent company, Comcast, and its Internet Essentials program. It provides broadband internet service to eligible families and is part of the companies billion-dollar commitment to digital equity.
“We were just thrilled to fan the flames of the education that these kids are getting,” said Al Roker.
“We love our day job, but when we can come out and see the joy on the children’s faces, this is just phenomenal,” said Comcast’ Michael Parker.
The school is credited with not only helping kids achieve in academics but the also offers a free barbershop, as well as a free resource room of personal care and household items for students.
“If students’ needs are not met in other
places that shows up in the classroom. I want to be able to bridge those gaps for students in any way that we need for them and their families so they can show up as their best selves,” Swinton-Buck shared.Along with Digital Harbor’s 1,400 new laptops, Comcast is also donating 1,600 laptops to other Baltimore school programs, as a part of what’s said to be the show’s “largest ever laptop giveaway.