St. Tammany News

The learning to last a lifetime outreach program begun by the St. Tammany Parish School Board has involved about 200 people over the age of 50 in computer classes, according to Julie Matte, curriculum and instruction technology supervisor for the St. Tammany Parish School Board.

The classes, open to anyone interested in learning computer skills, were originally scheduled for four weeks in February and March. Class size is limited due to the size of the computer labs. Demand was so great, additional classes were added for this session and classes are scheduled for March-April.

Matte said there is now a waiting list for the classes. She plans to include computer savvy high school students who need service hours as instructors or helpers in the classes. This will also help to spur interaction between the two generations, Matte said.

Future plans are to continue the outreach program, possibly year round, for those wanting to learn basic computer skills. Current students are learning everything from how to turn the computer on to e-mail and even how to work an iPhone.

One student was so proud of her accomplishments she e-mailed Matte a cartoon.

Students came with a number of requests for computer-oriented tasks to learn, ranging from Internet usage to making travel reservations online. Others wanted to sharpen skills needed for work.

Matte said there are even couples taking the classes, and often they compete with each other in learning different skills.

Although the classes are free, some students are so pleased they want to pay, according to Matte.

The classes offer hands-on training and are geared to those 50 and over, although younger adults can also join the classes. Classes are given at the Instructional Technology Center.

Classes are full for the present, but anyone interested in future classes should call Matte at 674-3534 to get on the waiting list.