Salem CyberSpace

"Salem Cyberspace, founded in April 2002, started as a not-for-profit technology center dedicated to helping people of all ages, ethnic cultures, and social and economic backgrounds become proficient in the use of computer technology. Their original goal was not just to "teach people how to use computers but to provide them with opportunities to use these new skills and knowledge in a meaningful way" according to their website. Salem CyberSpace expands the educational and career opportunities for low-income youth and adults utilizing state-of-the-art technology.

Salem Cyberspace is open to all 12 years and older, who want to broaden their technology skills. The center sees technology as a tool to teach English, financial literacy, and job readiness. All programs are free and supported by foundation and government grants.

Salem Cyberspace was located at 98 Lafayette Street, downtown Salem.

In 2015, they changed their name to reflect a new sense of purpose. Later, they moved the organization to Shetland Park.

The new name is LEAP for Education. Some of their new mission includes an academic learning center, college success program and after school partnerships.

In April 2026, founder Linda Saris retired as Executive Director. Deputy Director Kayla Dorst, a LEAP alumnus and first-generation Salem State graduate will take her place as Executive Director.

LEAP for Education has continued their Summer Work Program for teens since 2017. The program provides local high school students from Salem and Lynn with paid work experience and mentorship. In 2026, the program developed a hybrid option where students spent half of their time doing career readiness training at LEAP for Education and the other half with on site experience at Dream MORE at Thurgood Marshall, North Shore CDC, Lynn Community Health Center, and Salem Hospital. LEAP for Education hopes to expand their career offerings in the future across multiple industries.

See Also

• Vertical File in Salem Collection - LEAP for Education

Leap for Education website

• "LEAP names Dorst as new exec. director", Salem Evening News, April 16, 2026

• "LEAP for Education gives teens hands-on work experience" Salem Evening News, Aug. 17, 2026, p. A01