Urban Technology Project

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Urban Technology Project (UTP): In Partnership with the School District of Philadelphia, Launch developed a program to address digital inclusion issues within Philadelphia. The Urban Technology Project provides youth with opportunities for meaningful access to information technology tools and education, promoting ownership of knowledge, problem solving, and self-reliance. The Urban Technology Project includes the Digital Service Fellows and Computer Support Specialists described below.

Digital Service Fellows (DSF): DSF is a full-time AmeriCorps information technology pre-apprenticeship program for recent high school graduates who have an interest in both serving their communities and in pursuing careers in the information technology field. DSF participants learn under the guidance of a School District of Philadelphia information technology professional and actively apply the skills learned by installing new equipment or repairing existing equipment in schools and by leading school-based technology programs and workshops.

Computer Support Specialists. Launch and the School District of Philadelphia have also partnered to create the Computer Support Specialists program. Computer Support Specialists provide technical support to 62 schools and 4 central offices of the School District of Philadelphia. This program complements the DSF initiative and allows recent graduates the opportunity to serve a one-year apprenticeship with master technicians in the School District.