RESERVE — Improvements in the way students will learn at St. John Alternative School this fall came with a hefty price tag, but businesses in the River Region have begun to come to the aid of the school system.

St. John the Baptist Parish Schools Superintendent Kevin George said students who attend St. John Alternative School next month will have technology advances to assist in learning. Before the advances, students ranging from fifth grade all the way to 12th grade were being taught in the same classroom, George said, highlighting how difficult it was for teachers to assist all students.

The new technology means students will be able to receive personalized lessons based on their individual grade and achievement level, which means teachers will not be in the situation where multiple grade levels are trying to learn at one time. George said discussions on the technology purchase started in January.

When Eliza Eugene, founder of the non-profit organization Blessed to be a Blessing, heard of the improvement plans, she pledged to help by getting local businesses involved in the project’s funding.

“I’m willing to help with this initiative because I know there’s a need,” she said. “This is our community. These are our kids. We all have a part in educating our kids.”

Eugene said she is working in collaboration with the St. John the Baptist Parish School District and hopes to include the River Region Chamber of Commerce to get 24 businesses to each pledge $500 to cover the cost of the equipment, which George said was already purchased so students could start the new school year with the computers.

George said the business community in the River Region always “puts their money where their mouth is,” adding when local businesses leaders tell him to call them if he ever needs something, they mean it and follow through with support.

“This is a tight-knit, close community,” George said. “When there’s a need, the business community steps up to the plate and fills the need.”

Businesses interested in contributing to the computer collaboration can contact Eugene at 985-359-9954 or blessedtobeablessing@elizaeugene.com.