PORTLAND, Oregon—Translated from the Hebrew, "Tikkum Olam" means "repairing the world." It's a concept deeply rooted in Judaism, and explored in depth by students at the Portland Jewish Academy. This year, students from this private K-8 school took their message to a global audience, developing their first Web site to promote healing and hope.

Eighth-grade teacher Eti Gal, originally from Israel, has combined a series of classroom activities around the healing theme. "Students made a mobile showing kids around the world, then they wrote a story in Hebrew that shows how kids around the world can come together to do something good for the world," she explains. The writing assignment also promoted development of students' Hebrew language skills.

The school, which enrolls about 275, has a new computer lab with 18 computers, along with a rolling lab of 16 computers. Each classroom has an additional two computers, which tend to be older models. "We are attempting to upgrade our aging classroom computers," says Gal.

Students' backgrounds vary widely. In terms of technology, she says, "some have no computers in their homes; the school is their only access to technology. Others are technology self-sufficient." Similarly, students' language skills are diverse. Some are learning English as a second language, having recently arrived from Israel or another country. All are taught to speak and write English, Hebrew, and Spanish. "By the end of their time here, these children are tri-lingual." Because the school offers tuition assistance, students come from families that are diverse economically, as well.

When it came to developing a Web site, Gal and her students learned new skills together. "We have just installed a new computer lab to help our students meet their goals. Students have shown a great deal of enthusiasm." Challenges included addressing language issues. "We had to figure out a way to let everyone view the subject matter from their own computer, whether they had Hebrew fonts or not," she explains.

But the benefits have been worth the extra effort, teacher and students agree. "Students will be able to share their work with others. Everyone will be able to see their work as it progresses throughout the school year. This worldwide publication may in some way help promote healing and international understanding."