Learn more about...
ACCESS Academy Students Refurbish Computers to Serve Their Community
June 11, 2026
By Christy Hudson
When Raihan Mahmood joined ACCESS Academy, he was looking for more than a traditional high school experience. Drawn by the opportunity to earn college credit, collaborate with industry professionals, and engage in authentic learning experiences, he quickly found himself applying classroom knowledge in ways that make a real difference.
That opportunity came to life this spring through a computer refurbishment project that challenged ACCESS Academy students to prepare 100 used laptops for distribution to graduating seniors and other learners in need.
For Raihan, a student at Potomac Falls High School, the project stood out because it combined technical skill development with service to others. Students worked together to install operating systems, reimage devices, and ensure each computer was functioning properly before it could be distributed.
The work required careful attention to detail. Every device had to be tested and verified, making quality control one of the most challenging aspects of the process. Along the way, students gained valuable technical skills, including learning how to install operating systems and upgrade refurbished computers.
The most rewarding moment came when the refurbished laptops reached their new owners.
"Seeing the laptops being distributed was probably the moment I felt most proud," Raihan said. "We were able to take something we worked on and put it directly into the hands of people who could benefit from it."
The experience reinforced an important lesson about the role technology plays in education and everyday life. Raihan believes access to technology is essential for learning, communication, and collaboration, and he hopes the students receiving the computers will be able to use them to pursue their educational goals and opportunities.
The project also reflected the core mission of ACCESS Academy, which emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world application.
For ACCESS Academy students, opportunities like this provide meaningful exposure to professional environments and help build the technical, communication, and problem-solving skills needed for future careers," said Jeremy Shughart, ACCESS Academy Coordinator for Loudoun County Public Schools. This was an incredible opportunity for our students to apply their skills in a real-world setting while supporting and connecting with local Loudoun County students.
Unlike traditional classroom assignments, the refurbishment project allowed students to see the direct impact of their work while gaining experience that is already shaping their future interests and career goals. Raihan said one of the biggest surprises about ACCESS Academy has been how quickly students become immersed in real-world projects and college-level coursework.
For students considering the program, he believes the experience offers a unique opportunity to gain practical skills, explore future careers, and get a head start on college.
More than anything, Raihan hopes his experience demonstrates what students can accomplish when they are trusted with meaningful opportunities.
"Even high school students can make a difference if they are given the right opportunity," he said.
For Raihan and ACCESS Academy classmates, the project was about more than repairing laptops. It was discovering the power of applying their skills to solve real problems, support their communities, and create opportunities for others.