Hampton Middle School pupils have raised $988, exceeding their goal for Nothing But Nets, a program sponsored by the United Nations that raises money for mosquito netting to protect people who live in countries where malaria is widespread, particularly in Africa.

The nets cost $10 each and are treated with insecticide to kill mosquitoes, which transmit malaria to humans.

The Bill Gates Foundation will match every dollar the pupils raise. Their goal had been $900.

The North Hills Senior High School technology education department recently received a $1,000 Public Education Leadership Community Grant from the PPG Industries Foundation to support the school's 2007-08 Build Your Dream Vehicle competition.

From 2001 to 2006, North Hills technology education students competed in the National Build Your Dream Vehicle contest, an automobile design competition sponsored by Chrysler Corp. In 2006, North Hills finished third in the nation. However, the national program is no longer being offered. The PPG grant allows North Hills Senior High School to continue it on a smaller scale.

Student-designed vehicles will be showcased during the upcoming North Hills School District Arts Alive show May 9. Local automobile experts will evaluate the projects, and prizes will be awarded for best designs and concepts.