Two students at Clear Creek Elementary work with micro:bits.
In Kari Davis’ classroom at Clear Creek Elementary, students worked with micro:bits, pocket-sized computers with an LED light display, buttons, and sensors. Students can make the micro:bits come alive through code using a program called “Microsoft MakeCode.”
“I love it, I love to code,” said Bentley, a student. “Coding is just really enjoyable to me. It’s like with these [micro:bits], you can create almost anything!”
Micro:bits are just one of many EiE offerings for teachers in Central Kitsap Schools. Lessons are intended to be fun while introducing important concepts at a young age that apply to the current job landscape.
Students build a foundation in coding and the engineering design process, desirable skills for valuable degrees and high-paying jobs.
“Employment data and projections clearly show us that the majority of living wage to higher wage jobs are, and will be, in STEM-related careers,” Dowell said “It’s important for our students to be introduced to concepts at an early age in a way that’s engaging and accessible.”
EiE education is one way CK Schools is working to ensure all students graduate college and career ready, as outlined in the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan.
The impact on the classroom has been noticeable. According to Stephanie Devey, a fourth-grade teacher at Green Mountain Elementary, students are practicing skills like being persistent, listening for understanding, and problem solving.
At the end of the year, Devey’s students took a career engineering quiz to see what field suits them best.
“Once they participate in EiE lessons, they realize they can be an engineer,” Devey said. “Students leave my classroom feeling more positive about taking reasonable risks and trying out new strategies”
This story is a part of a series on how EiE is aiding STEM education in Central Kitsap School District. To read the full series, click here.