I began teaching computer science and coding almost three years ago by accident. I was presented with an opportunity to get trained in a new Project Lead the Way (PLTW) course for middle school level learners called Innovators and Makers. I had to participate in an intensive once a week training via Adobe Connect for […]
This year I wanted to carry on the tradition of carving pumpkins and sharing the joy of the season with the kids that I teach. I always attempt to help students find joy in learning and upon arriving to the classroom with a trolley full of pumpkins, there was no doubt a lot of joy in the […]
I started integrating coding and robotics into my program about four years ago after meeting a teacher at a conference who had been coding with her kindergarten students. I thought, If kinders can do this, surely I could figure it out. I had dabbled with coding in highschool and university and one of my favourite toys […]
WHY CODE? What makes students so engaged that when the end of the day on a Friday, learning is still taking place and not one student in a class of 25 even notice that the bell is about to ring? Here’s why: I was introduced to Brian Aspinall through a colleague. Brian and I are […]
At the conclusion of every year I have my students write; ‘Archer Survival Tips’ for the incoming students….suffice to say they are fantastic! Itemes such as; ‘Glasses on? Park your behind and mind your own business for the day, he didn’t sleep well (probably a Fire Call in the AM)’ or ‘Hydrate with Coffee….Often, no […]
For all the kids who grow up in a small town and think they don’t stand a chance. You do. I was once that kid.