STEM2 Hub continues to inject vital Coding and Computer Science teacher training and student instruction across Northeast Florida. Our efforts seek to prepare students to be workforce-ready for the high demand STEM2-related careers. Here’s a look at STEM2 projects and the critical relationships we are nurturing across the globe to make a difference here at home.
Microsoft “Hacking STEM” has Already Impacted Nearly 20,000 Students
As a result of the relationship we have developed with Microsoft in recent years, STEM2 Hub was invited to participate in a two-week immersive experience at the Microsoft Campus in Redmond, Washington. In all, 30 teachers and leaders from the Northeast Florida region, out of a total of 150, participated in the two-week immersive experience that included educators throughout K-20 levels.
The trip to Redmond had immediate impact when participants returned to Florida. For example, Duval County district leader, Peter Carafano, developed a bold, new vision for STEM2 instruction in the district. Peter shared his experience with district administrators, painting a picture of the type of learning needed to move education forward in order to prepare students for the workforce of the future. Peter received approval for his vision and his plan. He began with the sixth grade in the middle schools, providing training and professional development.
The two-week “Hacking STEM” experience has the ability to dramatically change the landscape of STEM2 instruction in our region. The level of engagement is very high and has the potential to scale more rapidly than initially anticipated. Region wide, the experience has already impacted 19,250 students.
1,300 Teachers Providing Computer Science Instruction in NE Florida
Teachers are now introducing students to computer science with “Computer science Fundamentals” in elementary schools. In Middle School, students learn more in “Computer Science Discoveries” and in High School students can now take “Computer Science Principles” as a standard or advanced placement course. In all, 50,000 students are receiving computer science exposure daily compared to none just a few years ago.
Nearly 50,000 Students Participate in “Hour of Code”
Exposure to coding is fundamental and it is critical that ALL students have access to experiences that make them aware of careers in computers science. The “Hour of Code” is one way to introduce children to coding. North Florida has experienced unprecedented participation in the Hour of Code across our region. Clay and Putnam Counties had 100% student participation in this year’s Hour of Code. These two districts, along with the others in our region meant 47,000 students in NE Florida participated. Many schools now offer students weekly coding time.