Equitable Computer Science Education at Decatur City Schools
Objectives
Decatur City Schools is the most diverse school system in Alabama, comprised of 40% Caucasian, 30% Hispanic and other, and 30% African American students. Their goal is to "change the family tree" and expose students to computer science education to help break the poverty cycle.
Solutions
Along with the state's legislative initiative to provide computer science K-12 standards, the Amazon Future Engineer + BootUp PD sponsorship enhanced the school's computer science education program with more in-depth curricula and training for teachers. Thanks to the resolution and vision of one of the Instruction Coaches, Faith Plunkett, her computer science/maker space "Spark Lab" provides a hub for teachers and students to pursue their creative endeavors even further.
At a Glance
Challenges
- Restrictions due to COVID-19
- Substitute shortages and teacher fatigue
- Access to adequate PD
Benefits
- Equitable integration throughout the school day
- Leveled the playing field for underserved students
- Engaged students in subject areas they love
Outcomes
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About 30% of students across Decatur School district are exposed to CS in the classroom
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156 teachers participated in the 2020-2021 school year with an additional 36 in 2021-2022
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All K-5 students at the district receive CS instruction 45 minutes every week, 20 times a year for 30 minutes, 60 minutes every other week.
This program is going to not only inspire our students, but provide our teachers with more innovative instructional teaching methods.”
Faith Plunkett - Instructional Coach Decatur, AL
Learn about starting your own district-wide “Computer Science for All” initiative!
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Download a copy of the case study |
|---|---|
| Zara Taylor | |
| (301) 312-5999 | |
| (267) 710-5311 | |
| zara@bootuppd.org | |
| www.bootuppd.org |
