Operational since January 11^th, 1999 KLASNET is a project designed to provide a functionally, non-technical, internet-based communications network for all schools in the Kerry area. KLASNET is a collaborative project involving expert input from all levels of the education (primary, secondary and third level).

Objectives

The broad objectives of KLASNET are to provide:

Support

To date 94 schools (3 levels),  the local DES schools’ psychologist, Maire Ni Riain, Kerry County Council, the Garda Siochana, Tralee General Hospaital and Valentia Observatory are participating in the network. The total population being served is 21,000 students with about 950 teachers.

The chief player in the project is the Institute of Technology, Tralee (ITT) which has invested £5,000 in the project. The ITT is also providing every possible resource in terms of expertise, facilitation and hardware support. The network hub is physically located in the ITT on a dedicated server.

Official Launch

KLASNET was officially launched on March 5^th, 1999 by Mr. Justice Hugh O’Flaherty of the Supreme Court at the Institute of Technology.

Membership

Membership of KLASNET reflects the broad range of participants in the project:

Paul Collins (Computer Science Lecturer, ITT - Technical Advisor)

Gene O’Donnell (Marketing Lecturer, ITT – Public Relations & Treasurer)

Deirdre Lillis (Computer Services Manager, ITT - Third Level Co-ordinator)

Eoin O Carra (Vice-Principal, St. Brenda's College, Killarney - Second Level Co-ordinator)

Dermot Twomey (Career Guidance, Tralee CBS - Second Level Co-ordinator)

Donal O’Connor (Principal, Caherleaheen NS - Primary Co-ordinator & Secretary)

Michael O’Donnell (Project Manager/Co-ordinator)

Michael Carmody (Registrar, ITT)

Noel Malone (ASTI IT Convenor)

Maire Ni Riain (Schools’ Psychologist)

John Conlon (Teacher, California)

Jim O’Connor (Tralee CBS Primary)