Students demonstrate Project Lead The Way micro:bit projects at Loma Prieta

Presenter 3 and classroom presenters showed a classroom demonstration of Project Lead The Way, a STEM curriculum the district began this year through a recently approved grant. The program uses micro:bit microcontrollers for hands-on coding and hardware work; students work in small teams to build LED displays, locker alarm systems and safety devices.

"These microbits can do a variety of things that, include, like, making noise, having LED messages pop up," said Presenter 1 during the demonstration, describing how students program devices with MakeCode and then wire sensors (photocells, pressure sensors) to trigger outputs. A student demonstrated a pressure-sensor alarm, explaining: "if you lift it and there's no pressure on it, it'll start beeping." Presenters noted the program offers three project options (blink, secrets & safes, safety device/interactive art/dispenser) and emphasized the curriculum's focus on coding, wiring and creativity.

District staff said teacher training and a grant made the early launch possible and that the intent is to expand options and sustain the course. The presentation included examples of student work and a reminder that the program's modules combine computer science with hands-on engineering practice. The district asked the community to encourage student participation and thanked volunteers and staff who supported the initial rollout.