Free computers, it's now a reality for many sixth graders in Martin County. Some say technology is now a key component in education and they are making sure no child is left behind online.

It's called Computers For Kids and 100 students are getting brand new Dell laptops for free.

Sixth grade student, Twila Stacy says, “It was nice of them, it was like they didn't have to do it. They just chose too.”

Robbie Fletcher, Principal of Warfield Middle School says, “Well when kids keep up with technology then they’re going to be more career oriented, they're going to have opportunities to compete in different jobs, different careers that any other kids would be left behind.”

Connect Kentucky along with $325,000 in funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission is giving over 1500 students across Kentucky the ability to get online.

Learning should not limited to school hours only that's why school officials say by taking the computers home, they'll be continuing their education.

Andrew McNeil, with Connect Kentucky says, “Giving to the kid, the kids will be the owners of these laptop computers. They’ll be able to take them home, they'll be able to take them down to the local library, they'll be able to take them to the community center and they will be able to take them here to school. They will be the owners of that computer and we certainly hope they'll put them to good use.”

Officials say sometimes families just don't have the extra money to buy one.

McNeil says, “They may be coming from different backgrounds, they may be coming from different families, they may be living in different areas but it's the same challenge, helping kids bridge the digital divide, get computers in the home, hope they get on internet service, give them the same opportunities.”

Officials say it's about giving children the opportunity to stay competitive with the rest of the world.

Lexmark is also giving each student a brand new printer to go with their computer.