Overview

Cerritos Elementary recently hosted its third annual showcase of student coding projects, allowing parents and guardians to explore how children from transitional kindergarten through sixth grade are engaging with computer science. Principal Perla Chavez-Fritz reported an attendance of approximately 300 guests, similar to last year's turnout.

The event highlighted various projects, including students building robots and coding them to navigate a mock-up of Glendale, demonstrating practical applications of coding in real-world scenarios.

Key details

  • The showcase took place on February 6.
  • Principal Perla Chavez-Fritz noted that many parents are unfamiliar with coding.
  • Students showcased their work in classrooms from transitional kindergarten to sixth grade.
  • Christian Barrios, a kindergarten student, created an online version of his room and dog using Scratch.
  • Barrios and his classmates built a cityscape mock-up with Lego blocks to illustrate coding concepts.
  • Sixth graders in Karineh Avanessian’s class worked with Lego-branded robots.
  • Students coded their robots to move through a city map featuring local landmarks and stop signs.
  • Noah Sanchez, an 11-year-old student, adjusted his robot's coding directions during the showcase.
  • Avanessian emphasized the importance of troubleshooting and testing theories in coding.
  • The school transitioned into a computer-science magnet three years ago.
  • The implementation of Code to the Future has provided training for teachers in computer-science education.
  • Teachers learn to use various programs to enhance classroom learning.

Context

The showcase reflects Cerritos Elementary's commitment to integrating computer science into its curriculum, following the school board's decision to focus on this area. The event serves as an opportunity for parents to gain insight into their children's learning experiences in coding.

What happens next

As the school continues to foster computer science education, future showcases may further highlight student innovations and projects, allowing for ongoing parental engagement and understanding of coding.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific number of projects presented, the feedback from parents, and the long-term impact of the Code to the Future program on student learning outcomes have not been confirmed.