Hurricane Katrina Learning Center

Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
 

Following the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the generosity of the Pearson Foundation allowed The Community College Foundation to bring the eBus resource to the affected area of Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. Serving the Waveland and Bay St. Louis School District, the eBus served as an integral component of a temporary “tent school” established at a former athletic complex. Pearson colleagues and other volunteer groups from across the country established a four-part curriculum offering access to computer technology, arts and crafts, physical education and reading.

The eBus, equipped with 12 computer workstations, high-speed satellite Internet technology, the latest educational software for children; furthers Pearson Digital Learning’s commitment to providing research-based digital learning solutions that elevate the art and science of teaching and inspire students to reach their greatest potential.

While on location, the eBus was privileged to participate in a Halloween chocolate drop inspired by the children's book "Mercedes and the Chocolate Pilot. ABC’s “Good Morning America” was present for a live feed as chocolate-covered sandwich cookies equipped with mini-parachutes were dropped by WWII veteran Col. Gail Halvorsen. After the drop Robin Roberts cheered children on with the words, “Go get the goods!”

Early November, the eBus found a new home at North Bay Elementary as children in the area were placed in more permanent quarters. At the school, a site composed of mobile units; the eBus continued to serve the Waveland and Bay St. Louis school districts. Over 40% of the North Bay Elementary School student body is composed of former “tent school” attendees. On any given day, it was common to see children laughing or singing the alphabet as they progressed through the digital curriculum. Children who visited the eBus were also able to access the onboard library of Penguin books.

We are pleased to announce that the eBus served over 200 students while located at the Tent School and North Bay Elementary School in Pass Christian, MS.

The Community College Foundation would like to extend its appreciation to the Pearson Foundation for their generosity in funding an eBus to provide services to children and schools in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi from October-December 2005.