It’s time to plug in, log on, and get caught up.

The Dallas County School System center is hosting free computer classes for community members at both the Dallas County Resource Center and Keith High School on Tuesdays between now and next May.

The truth is technology is advancing at a faster pace than ever before, and it is becoming more and more vital for people to know their way around a computer.

“In today’s society, everything is going to computers and technology, so we want them to be familiar with it,” said Shirley Edwards, Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters coordinator and class instructor for the school system. “If they know basic computer skills, it will help them in the long run.”

The program, which is funded by the United States Department of Education’s Title 1, teaches participants the basic skills — including internet browsing, typing and brochure design — necessary to thrive in the modern, digital age.

This program, and the attendance of each and every participant, makes Selma and Dallas County a stronger community.

Today, it is nearly impossible to find and keep a job that isn’t in someway affected by the skill sets taught in this program.

We want to take this opportunity to thank the program leaders and participants for their work to make our community a better place.