Abstract: A system for operation of an educational website on a network offers curriculum content provided by one or more curriculum content providers for engagement of student users on the website. The website includes webpages accessible by the students, by a teacher for a class of students registered to use the website, and by parents registered along with their students. An awards scoring component scores the performance of individual student users and awards them award points, which can be redeemed for rewards on the website. The website includes a component for communicating information about student user performance to their teacher and parents in order to promote parent and teacher involvement with students' activities on the website.

Abstract: A gate valve is provided for granular or other dry materials which reduces the tendency of the valve to clog or jam during closing. The valve includes a slide having an arcuate-shaped forward end and a flared passageway to insure proper closing. The preferred form of the invention is made of durable plastic although other materials may also be employed.