Arcade Elementary students have joined other K-4 students at Pioneer in taking part in online-based activities meant to show them the basics of computer coding.
Technology Integrator Erik Maeder is heading the effort to demonstrate to students that computers are more than just gaming devices.
"I've been working with 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grade enrichment students in both elementary schools," he said. "I meet with each group of kids weekly, working through grade-specific lessons on https://www.code.org.
"The lessons are presented in puzzle format, with the kids learning computational thinking, problem-solving, and programming concepts as they work their way through each level. Because the challenges are presented as games, all of the students really enjoy it, and for the most part, solve each of the puzzles with very little input from me."
According to its website, Code.org is a nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to computer science in schools and increasing participation by young women and students from other underrepresented groups.
"Our vision is that every student in every school has the opportunity to learn computer science as part of their core K-12 education," the website states.