To help fund curriculum instruction and additional technology upgrades, Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races has donated $45,000 to Jefferson County schools throughout the area.

A total of 18 schools will split the funding for various purchases, according to Susan Wall, superintendent of Jefferson County Schools.

With ongoing support from Hollywood Casino, Wall said education in Jefferson County has become a community effort.

“It takes a town to raise a child,” Wall said. “I truly believe that everyone in Jefferson County supports our schools and we are very appreciative for this donation.”

Driswood Elementary is one of many schools that has already decided where the funding will go.

With technology integration a large part of today’s learning, Driswood Elementary principal Kelly Osborne said the money will be used to buy additional iPads, iPad protective covers and other interactive products.

Currently, Driswood has an average of six iPads per classroom, but Osborne hopes increase that average over time.

The tablets are used primarily for math and reading language studies, in addition to providing access to online library resources.

Osborne said since Driswood first began using e-learning tools in the classroom, she has noticed a difference in the way students learn and pick up information.

“Students become more engaged with the material. … They get them out and they don’t want to put them down,” Osborne said.

Al Britton, general manager at Hollywood Casino, said funding Jefferson County schools is just another part of their commitment to surrounding communities.

Despite losing $90 million in revenue last year, according the Gibbons and Kawash accounting firm, Britton said Hollywood Casino is still dedicated to helping schools around the area.

“One of our core values is to be a good neighbor and we are very committed to that,” Britton said.