By Mary Shapiro

Kehrs Mill Elementary School is one of 34 schools in the nation to receive $25,000 toward a computer lab makeover.

The lab features a choice of 20 laptops or desktop computers equipped with the new Windows Vista Ultimate operating system.

Principal Margaret Lucero said the school, 2650 Kehrs Mill Road in Chesterfield, was chosen in a random drawing in February.

Karen Gentelin, counselor at Kehrs Mill, filled out the winning nomination form at the Chesterfield valley Best Buy.

The Ultimate Windows Vista Celebration Sweepstakes, through Microsoft Corp., took place at select retail locations across the nation, where individuals nominated the school of their choice. Those retail shops included Best Buy, Circuit City, CompUSA, J&R and Staples.

Kehrs Mill chose the option of 20 desktop computers with flat-screen monitors.

"The equipment will be put to good use," Gentelin said. "Students use technology in many subject areas, and this will give us access to more computers. And we'll have the most updated Windows operating system technology. Students are very excited to have them here. They arrived in April and will be put into use in the next school year."

Gentelin said she's not usually this lucky.

"But I care a great deal about all the students, and I'm thrilled to be able to do something to benefit them," she said. "I want to thank Best Buy for sponsoring this sweepstakes and Microsoft for their generous gift."

Microsoft officials said they were happy to do so.

"With Windows Vista Ultimate on their new computers, the students at these 34 schools will have a computer experience that is easier, safer and more engaging than they've had before, whether the user is a computer whiz or just learning to use a PC," said Anthony Salcito, general manager for education/Microsoft U.S. public sector.

"Students can quickly search for whatever it is they need, whether on the desktop or online, and they can browse the Internet with confidence that their computer and personal information are protected by enhanced security," Salcito said.

You can contact Mary Shapiro at mshapiro@yourjournal.com.