The project, posted by another school on the Internet, seeks input from schools around the world and asks students to collect data from their areas on rainfall, temperature, and other meteorological topics. Students are also using e-mail, and are able to begin pen pal relationships that way. All students involved in using the Internet have signed policies that they will not access inappropriate sites. But via the Internet it is at a student's fingertips and it is accessible in many ways. Ms. Whartnaby said the students can read what is on their computer screen from the Internet in large print or in refreshable Braille or hear a voice output message.
Students are on line a few times a week in the two classes.
By Dr. Bernadette M. Kappen Overbrook School for the Blind is a very tight-knit community, with staff working closely on projects, teachers well acquainted with students throughout the programs, and students' families active in and supportive of many activities. However, Overbrook's is a far from insular community. As you will read in articles throughout this issue, our staff makes it a point to bring our students out into the world and bring the world to our students. One of the most advanced ways is through Overbrook 2001, which has opened new doors for our students through the Internet and e-mail. There are many other ways we encourage our students to be active members of the community.