The Power Behind CS Education at Avondale Elementary School District
Objectives
Avondale Elementary School District's mission is to ensure that every child grows as a thinker, problem-solver, and communicator, to pursue a future without limits. To fulfill that mission, Avondale partnered with BootUp PD to develop a three-year district-wide implementation program that would engage students in critical thinking and communication.
Solutions
As a change agent in education, Superintendent, Betsy Hargrove, saw the potential in a move beyond solving basic puzzles to creating meaningful projects with an interest-driven, project-based learning curriculum. The K-8 schools replaced an existing 40-minute typing and computer applications class with a computer science/coding class. Teachers from a variety of disciplines were involved, including a PE and art teacher. The key was weekly professional development.
At a Glance
Challeneges
- Little to no exposure to computer science
- Accessibility and access for ELL students
Benefits
- Equitable integration throughout the school day
- Leveled the playing field for disenfranchised students
- Engaged students in subject areas they love
Outcomes
0
All students across K-8 were exposed to CS in the classroom
0%
10 schools in the district
0
All K-8 students at the district attend 40-minute coding classes a year with a Technology Specialist
All students should learn to code! Instruction in computer science and the opportunity to learn to code truly is an equity issue. And for us to have equity and accessibility for all children, it has to happen during the school day."
Dr. Betsy Hargrove - Superintendent Avondale, AZ
Learn about starting your own district-wide “Computer Science for All” initiative!
 |
Download a copy of the case study |
|---|---|
| Suzanne Carlson | |
| (262) 205-9111 | |
| suzanne@bootuppd.org | |
| www.bootuppd.org |
