The Middletown Board of Education is gearing up for an exciting Computer Science Education Week, set to take place the first week of December. This year marks the third annual celebration, and the district is enhancing its programming to engage students from kindergarten through 12th grade in meaningful coding activities.

Superintendent Creedon and Assistant Superintendent Mrs. Adoma highlighted the week’s events, which will kick off with a "Chill and Code" session, inviting students to participate in various online coding activities from home. This initiative aims to spark interest in technology among younger students, particularly those in grades K-5, who may not have previously engaged with computer science.

A key feature of the week will be a coding competition for students in grades 3-12, where participants will present their original code to live judges. This year, the competition has expanded to include two levels of engagement for high school students, recognizing the varying experience levels among participants. Notably, the number of high school students participating has increased significantly, with 22 students registered this year compared to just 10-15 in previous years.

The week will also include a "SIP and Code" event at William A. Carter Elementary School, where families can enjoy refreshments while engaging in hands-on computer science activities. This event aims to foster community involvement and make learning about technology fun for all ages.

The board emphasized the importance of preparing students for a future where technology plays a crucial role. By introducing coding and computer science concepts early, the district hopes to equip students with essential skills for the 21st century job market. The initiatives planned for Computer Science Education Week reflect a commitment to making technology accessible and engaging for all students and their families.

As the district looks forward to this week of innovation and learning, the positive feedback from parents and students alike underscores the growing interest in STEM education within the community. The board is optimistic that these efforts will not only enhance students' educational experiences but also inspire a new generation of tech-savvy individuals ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.