By Ruth Russell

Today even preschoolers can surf the net and learn something while they're doing it.

Thanks, in part, to North Park Elementary School.

It has teamed up with an organization called AmericaTakingAction.com to create a website for teachers, students and parents.

"We're helping to make technology available to all children and families regardless of income level or learning capacity," said ATA President Sharilee Javadi.

ATA was organized in 1994, but has just recently begun to take form on the internet. Javadi had noticed that most schools, even the most advanced, were desperate for technology.

"Parents and teachers were scared to death of technology and wouldn't help students," said Javadi. "And computer businesses that could help only thought of money."

So Javadi set out with a goal to create a website for each elementary school in the country, to "make communication easier, obtain information under one roof, and to learn more about the internet." North Park Elementary is the latest school to make this step.

North Park's website has activities for students, opportunities to have a "cyber pal," the latest school announcements, and many links to educational websites. However, one of the most popular links is "Cyber Preschool."

"It's amazing," said resident Jennifer Mays. "I have a 4-year-old that can play on the computer."

Cyber Preschool allows children to watch cartoons, find new craft ideas, listen to music and find recipes. It's aimed directly for children 3 to 5.

"My daughter finds recipes for things as simple as Rice Krispy treats, or as interesting as bug- or flower-themed foods," said Mays. "She's even submitted a recipe for cookies."

In addition to the activities directly on the website, there are also links to other educational web sites, so that children can "surf the net" and parents don't have to worry about pornography and other dangers.

"We're giving our children, all children, the best society has to offer," said Javadi.

Because North Park's site was just recently created, the school is still looking for volunteers to help expand and advance it. ATA says that no experience is necessary, and they will provide everything the volunteers need. The only resource they don't have enough of is volunteers with time.

You can learn more at AmericaTakingAction.com.

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