Thousands of Round Rock ISD students at 20 schools stepped outside of their typical curriculum during Computer Science Education Week to learn more about programming languages and coding.
Students at all grade levels participated in the Hour of Code tutorials, which were created by Code.org and other free websites as a one-hour introduction to computer science.
“Engaging learning opportunities bring tremendous value into our classrooms,” Round Rock ISD Chief of Teaching and Learning Robbin Gesch said. “Now, a large number of students have gotten a taste for computer science, which may lead to a new passion in their lives. For those who are not interested in computer science, they also received value because of the problem solving and logic skills presented in these activities. We have great teachers in this district who embraced the Hour of Code, and our students enjoyed the benefits.”
Elementary school classes coded snowflakes with Elsa from “Frozen” and helped “Angry Birds” catch the pigs through interactive games using Javascript. Middle school and high school students created apps like their own “Flappy Bird” game where their code controlled the bird as it moved through the air trying not to crash.
Round Rock High School had so many students participate in The Hour of Code that the program had to spread into two rooms. Current computer science students at Round Rock High School were tasked to bring a friend to The Hour of Code event to introduce more students to the computer science classes.
The Warrior Tech Group at Westwood High School hosted a coding contest on Thursday morning, challenging students to complete the most activities for a chance to win a prize.
The week also served as an opportunity for students to learn about future career options through presentations by students and professionals in the field.
Baylor University computer science students visited with a classroom at Spicewood Elementary School during the week to share information about the college degree plan for programmers and coders. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steve Flores and Chief of Schools and Innovation Dr. Daniel Presley worked with a third grade class at the school during their hour of code.
Representatives from Austin-based technology recruiting firm Adecco visited with students at Live Oak Elementary School during their hour of code. Local computer scientists visited Pond Springs Elementary School to volunteer during the school’s coding activities.
Facebook Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg spoke to the computer programming club at Canyon Vista Middle School and answered their question, “what exciting possibilities do you see for the future of technology?” Sandberg encouraged the students that there are limitless possibilities for individuals with knowledge of computer science.
“The excitement around the Hour of Code went viral in our schools,” said Lannon Hefflin, Round Rock ISD director of instructional technology. “It was awesome to see the great pictures and stories on Facebook, Twitter and Google+ from our schools after students completed their activities. We have great instructional technology specialists, teachers and librarians in this district, many of whom made this week possible through their efforts.”
