Claps, snaps and daps.
They were part of the lesson plan on Wednesday for third graders at Sto-Rox Primary Center, a lesson that Congressman Chris Deluzio saw firsthand.
The congressman toured the Primary Center to see a third grade class created through a partnership with STEM Coding Lab. Sto-Rox is in the second year of its partnership with STEM Coding Lab, a non-profit that helps Sto-Rox students in grades 3-7 learn the basics of computer coding, game design, robotics and more.
“Why not give them skills to be creators, rather than just users?” said STEM Coding Lab Executive Director Casey Mindlin. He explained that the lessons taught by STEM coding lab can enhance students’ reading and math skills, not to mention preparing them for future careers. For instance: there are approximately 14,000 open computer science jobs in Pennsylvania and according to Mindlin, fewer than 10% of Pennsylvania schools offer a computer science course.
STEM Coding Lab also assists Sto-Rox teachers with professional development. “Once they (teachers) see it,” explained Mindlin, “they see it empowers them to do their job.” The program will expand to Sto-Rox second grade classrooms this fall, building on the 20 classes per week taking place at the Primary Center and Upper Elementary.
Back in the classroom of teacher Celeste Sicilia and Naomi of STEM Coding Lab, the lesson Deluzio was watching related to basics of computer science. They chose from a selection of moves to put together a sequence that reflects the decisions computer programmers make. As Congressman Deluzio looked on in delight, he saw students trying - sometimes failing, sometimes succeeding - but understanding the building blocks of a science that will play role in their futures, and many others.