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West Palm Beach, Florida – In celebration of Computer Science Education Week, Rosarian Academy’s technology staff introduced first- through fourth-grade students to an “Hour of Code” in an effort to demystify computer coding and to show that anybody can learn the basics of computer science. With a keen eye on the future of learning, Rosarian Academy is nurturing problem-solving skills, logic and creativity, and providing a foundation for success in any 21st-century career path. 

Fourth-grade Rosarian Academy student Harrison Ashley learns how to code during Computer Science Education Week. Photo Submitted by Rosarian Academy

Rosarian Academy’s implementation of the Hour of Code was the kick-off to the school adding the Science, Technology, Engineer, and Mathematics (STEM) Lab into the Lower School curriculum. Beginning in January 2016, kindergartners through fourth-grade students will attend a STEM Lab class every other week. 

This STEM experience has been designed to enhance and connect the students’ scientific experimentation being done in the science classrooms, elementary science lab, and co-curricular computer labs, where they practice skills such as keyboarding and creating PowerPoint presentations. The STEM Lab classes include coding and engineering principles and incorporate projects that integrate science, engineering, and math through the use of technology. 

Implemented at the beginning of the school year, Rosarian started offering co-curricular robotics classes to its middle school fifth- to eighth-grade) students. Robotics class includes learning coding and HTML.

Rosarian Academy, founded in 1925, educates students from early childhood through eighth grade and offers an exceptionally strong 21st-century academic program enriched by athletics, visual and performing arts, and community service opportunities. The independent, Catholic school is located in downtown West Palm Beach and is sponsored by the Adrian Dominican Sisters. Rosarian is celebrating its 90th anniversary this school year. 

For more information, visit www.rosarian.org or call 561-345-3106.  

Feature photo: Third-graders Matias Bessenroght (left) and Finn Duran have fun learning how to code on the iPad. Photo submitted by Rosarian Academy.