The Coweta

County School system has jumped into a new program taht

it believes will help further prepare students for the

high-tech world.

Communities

in Schools of Coweta and Newnan High School have launched

the Cisco Networking Academy Program for the 1999-2000

school year to teach students how to design, build, and

maintain computer networks.

High school

students studying the 280-hour, Web-based curriculum will

develop the skills they need to compete in an

increasingly technology-dependent workplace.

The

Networking Academy has been facilitated through Cisco

Systems' partnership with Communities In Schools, Inc.

based in Alexandria, VA.

"The

enthusiasm seen in students currently involved with this

class is noticeable as they gain knowledge that has only

been available in post secondary levels prior to this

program," says Bonnie Garrison, Director of

Communities In Schools of Coweta.

"This

program is enhancing students' learning experiences and

providing the community with employees who will have the

skills required to fill positions within the

technological job market. It's a win-win situation for

the students and the community," she added.

The Cisco

Networking Academy Program is a worldwide education

initiative developed by Cisco System, Inc., the worldwide

leader in networking for the Internet. The program,

launched on October 1, 1997, now reaches approximately

21,000 students in all 50 states, Washington, D.C. and 40

countries around the world.

CIS is the

largest "stay in school network" and connects

community resources with schools to help young people

successfully learn, stay in school, and prepare for life.

Nationally, CIS reaches more than 500,000 students and

their families annually in 34 states, including the

District of Columbia.