Thursday, October 1, 2026
The Wantagh Foundation for Educational Excellence just wrapped up its fourth year offering computer classes for area senior citizens, a program that has remained popular since its inception.
The STACK program — Students Teaching Adults Computer Knowledge — is held monthly, sometimes more, on Saturday mornings at the Foundation’s trailer adjacent to Wantagh High School. The seniors work with youth volunteers to learn a variety of computer skills, such as creating Word documents, downloading photos, browsing the Internet and using email. The volunteers will also instruct seniors on the use of the cell phones and tablets.
Ralph Spagnolo, president of the Foundation, said that the volunteers are recommended by their computer teachers when in middle school. Many continue on with the program through high school and even college.
“They do it all,” he said. “The fact that the students have such great patience with the seniors is overwhelming.”
Kay Leaver, who has attended several sessions, said she appreciates the knowledge and patience of the teens. “We are not afraid to ask questions,” she said. “These young people are prepared to help us old people. We have so many basic problems. All we need is simple information.”
Leaver said little by little she has learned important skills. Recently, she spent her time downloading and printing out her pictures.
Spagnolo said the program started because members of the Foundation saw a need for it in the community. Some sessions attract a room full of seniors, Spagnolo said, and other times there are three or four participants. Those are the regulars. “If it’s snowing, they’re here,” he said. “They love it.
Leaver added that every town should have a program like this. “This is for free and the kids are willing to help,” she said. “These are very nice children.”
Annie Browne is one of three siblings who volunteers with the program. The ninth-grader at Wantagh High School is usually joined by her brother, Danny, a sixth-grader at the middle school, and sister, Katie, an eighth-grader.
“I like helping out the community and introducing technology to make seniors’ lives easier,” said Browne, 15. “I really think it’s a great program.”
She said many seniors are looking to setup email accounts so they can stay in touch with family members.
Spagnolo said that the Foundation has an awards assembly each year and the volunteer students with the best participation are recognized.
The final computer class for the 2014-15 school year was held on May 2, but the sessions will resume in the fall. In the meantime, the Foundation will hold its annual Summer Academy.
