A unique virtual school program has been introduced to teach bedridden children over the Internet. The project has been under way since January, but was formally kicked off in a ceremony held Monday evening at Beit Hanassi. So far 16 courses are being offered on elementary, middle and high school levels, in subjects ranging from English to geology, mathematics, geometry, and Hebrew and Arabic language and literature.
Courses are also available in Arabic.
According to Peled, the program is unique on an international level, and some European Union countries have expressed an interest in it. The service is offered free of charge, and the cost of some several thousand shekels per pupil is absorbed by Tlalim and Interwise, with funding from Bezeq. Children who are bedridden or unable to attend school for any reason for more than three weeks are eligible to apply for assistance, said Peled. Participating in the program are children with cancer, cystic fibrosis, organ transplants, mental illness, and viral diseases, along with those recovering from serious injuries or undergoing kidney dialysis. In all, Tlalim helps about 700 pupils nationwide, through this and other programs, Peled said.