Disasters can happen without warning, as the Hawai'i earthquakes of Oct. 15 show. Kids can help their families be prepared in the event of such emergencies. The "Ready Kids" Web site — www.ready.gov/kids/ — tells everything from how to create a disaster preparedness kit, to how to respond during an earthquake or tsunami. There are also crossword puzzles and comic strips, and tips for parents and teachers, too.

COLLEGE CHOICES

CAREER READINESS TOPS LIST

First-year U.S. college students say readiness for a career is the most important factor in judging the value of an education, according to a report by consulting firm Eduventures LLC. Professional preparation such as access to internships and a strong job-placement record with employers was "very important" in determining education value for 72 percent of students, the Boston-based company said in a recent report. The study was based on a survey of 6,200 enrolling freshmen. The findings indicate factors students consider when selecting a school.

— Bloomberg News Service

EDUCATION FACT

MORE GANGS

The percentage of students nationwide reporting the presence of gangs at school increased from 21 percent to 24 percent between 2003 and 2005.

Source: National Center for Education Statistics