Computer Skills, a Must-Have

Community Contributed

By Kalei “Pumpkin” Moss

Does the thought of creating a spreadsheet or PowerPoint presentation on the computer fill you with dread?  Does just the thought of turning a computer on make you want to run in the opposite direction?  Why not attend the 21st Century Grant computer class at Kaunakakai Elementary and say goodbye to those fears?  If you have no computer skills or your computer skills are a little rusty and you need a refresher, the computer classes offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 6 p.m. are just right for you.  In this day and age, you will likely need to have some computer skills, whether it is for your job or to help your kids with their school projects.

The classes are federally funded by the 21st Century Grant and are taught by Denise Lane, whose teaching experience ranges from school age students to college students, and she has over 25 years of computer experience.  Through step-by-step instruction along with video lessons, the hands-on class is easy for any skill level student to understand.  The classes are open to all ages and skill levels.

As technology continues to evolve, learning the basics becomes even more valuable. With the arrival of the new Windows 11, many first-time users and returning learners are discovering that computers don’t have to feel intimidating—they just need the right guidance. A modern operating system can actually make everyday tasks simpler, from organizing files to creating presentations that don’t look like they were made in 1998. When everything is properly set up and running as it should, confidence grows quickly, and what once felt overwhelming starts to feel manageable, even routine.

Of course, smooth learning depends on smooth systems. When software isn’t fully activated or features are limited, it can add unnecessary frustration for beginners. That’s why people often turn to community discussions, quietly browsing windows 11 retail key reddit threads to understand how others are setting up their systems correctly. Having a fully functional computer allows students to focus on building skills rather than troubleshooting problems. With the right tools in place, these classes can truly empower learners of all ages to embrace technology instead of fearing it.

The class started its first 10 weeks learning Microsoft Word and creating documents.  The second 10 weeks were spent learning Excel and how to create spreadsheets.  As of Nov. 2, the class has begun learning PowerPoint and how to create beautiful presentations.  Though the classes may have already begun learning a new topic, it is never too late to jump in and join them. During the warm-up and practice times during class, Denise is more than willing to help a student catch up if they are new to the class or if they had missed some sessions.

Not only is the Kaunakakai Elementary School computer lab open for computer classes, but is also open to anyone who just wants to use a computer.  The computer lab is open to the public on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 4 to 8 p.m.  If you want to practice your typing skills, work on a project, or just surf the web, feel free to come down to the Kaunakakai Elementary computer lab and sign in. Please keep in mind printing is not allowed. Most the computers were purchased through online shops, you can check out Related Site if you’d like to avail also.

If you or your children are interested in joining the Kaunakakai Elementary School computer class or if you would just like more information on the class or on the open computer lab, please contact Joshua Adachi at Kaunakakai Elementary at 553-1730.  Maunaloa Elementary also has computer lab times open to the public on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4 to 5 p.m.  If you are interested in the Maunaloa open computer lab, please call Wendy Espaniola at 552-2000.  Remember it is never too late to learn something new.