Children Love Learning to Sign

12/16/2003

DENVER, CO—“We were looking for new and creative activities to do after school,” says Laura Aranda, computer lab director at the Sister Mary Lucy Neighborhood Networks Center. “One of our volunteers, Jill Hasser, offered to teach the children sign language. We thought that was a great idea. In only one month the class has become a wonderful success.” Once a week 15 children, ages 7 to 14, come to the computer lab for the sign language classes that began this autumn. “At first the students wondered if they could learn to communicate with signs, but, after a couple of weeks, the children discovered that they really could,” Aranda continues. “They are really happy and excited about learning something new.” Using a combination of books, magazines, and sign language Web sites, Hasser has taught the students to sign the alphabet, words for favorite foods and their emotions (“happy” or “sad”) and simple sentences such as “I’m reading a book” or “My father is working.” “The introductory signing class has been so successful, we’re already planning to offer the next level,” adds Aranda. “It is amazing how well the children can communicate after only a one-month class. Parents and community members are also happy with the results.” Computer Classes Galore Since opening in February 2002, the Sister Mary Lucy Neighborhood Networks Center has assembled an impressive array of computer classes and recently unveiled its own Web site. Open 5 days a week, the center offers a variety of computer classes in English and Spanish, including basic computer skills, Microsoft Word 2000, Excel, Power Point, Internet, and E-mail. On-line classes (such as Java, Lotus, and Databases), using the Skill Soft program by Technology for All Americans, are also available. Residents can earn a Sister Mary Lucy certificate by completing classes. Steve Reemts of the Archdiocesan Housing Committee, Inc., coordinated the $18,600 HUD grant that provided startup funds for the center. Reemts is the administrator of the Humboldt Apartments, where the Sister Mary Lucy Neighborhood Networks Center is located. For more information on Neighborhood Networks centers in Colorado, contact: Thomas Hagerty U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development–Denver Office 633 17th Street, 11th Floor Denver, CO 80202 Phone: (303) 672-5343, ext. 1180 For more information on the Sister Mary Lucy Neighborhood Networks Center, contact: Laura Aranda Computer Lab Director Devnver, CO 80205 Phone: (303) 298-1934 E-mail: sistermarylucy@qwest.net Web site

Center(s) Highlighted or Profiled:	Sister Mary Lucy Neighborhood Networks Center
Scope:	National

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