HOC slideshow by Kayla Davidson
Pender County, NC — From December 4th through the 8th, Pender County Schools sparkled with innovation and enthusiasm as students across the district immersed themselves in the Hour of Code celebration. The event aimed to introduce students to the fascinating world of computer science through a variety of engaging activities, videos, and projects suitable for learners of all skill levels.
Teachers and students alike dove headfirst into the world of coding, with each school in the district bringing its unique flair to the celebration with the support of Kayla Davidson, the district’s Digital Learning Specialist. Among the many highlights were innovative initiatives such as Ms. Humphrey's use of Code & Go robots at Topsail Annandale Elementary. The students at Topsail Middle School, under the guidance of Ms. Day, explored the realms of coding through the popular and creative platform, Minecraft.
Rocky Point Elementary witnessed the dynamic duo of Ms. Harrison and Ms. Warrick, who orchestrated engaging Code.org activities, captivating young minds and igniting a passion for coding. Meanwhile, at Topsail Annandale, Ms. Major led coding activities that challenged students to think critically and creatively.
Cape Fear Elementary students under the guidance of Ms. Taylor delved into coding activities that combined poetry, fostering a sense of curiosity and creativity skills among the younger learners as they linked computer sciences to their English Language Arts curriculum. At Surf City Middle School, Ms. Turner took students on a virtual journey of career exploration, utilizing VR headsets to provide an immersive experience that broadened horizons.
The Week of Code celebration not only showcased the district's commitment to equipping students with essential digital skills but also highlighted the educators' dedication to making learning a fun and interactive experience. On December 6th, elementary educators from around the district came together for a full day of training on Lego FIRST training. As part of this program, elementary students will participate in an after-school club that will research, design, build, and showcase their achievements in robotics in coding in an upcoming spring district-wide competition. The diverse range of activities allowed students to explore various facets of computer science, encouraging them to consider future careers in the rapidly evolving field.
As the Week of Code unfolded, it became evident that Pender County Schools' approach to computer science education goes beyond traditional boundaries, creating an atmosphere where students are not just passive learners but active participants in shaping their technological future. The district's commitment to providing a well-rounded education is reflected in events like the Hour of Code, where innovation and education seamlessly converge.
The success of the celebration is a testament to the collaborative effort of educators, students, and the community, all working together to ensure that Pender County Schools remain at the forefront of technological education. With the echoes of coding adventures still resonating through the hallways, Pender County Schools can proudly say they have lit the spark of curiosity and creativity in the hearts and minds of their students during this exciting Week of Code.