Past projects 2
Revitalizing Robotics: Empowering Learning Through Sphero
Funded Nov 26, 2024We are incredibly grateful for the funding that allowed us to replace some of our aging Sphero Bolt robots. Technology like this makes a huge difference in how students learn, especially when it comes to hands on activities that bring coding and creativity together. These robots are helping students across all grades explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) in ways that are both exciting and meaningful. Whether they're coding obstacle courses, creating a "rock, paper, scissors" tournament, or using the robots to paint with stencils, students are learning problem solving, teamwork, and critical thinking skills in an engaging, fun environment.
The new robots have been a game changer for our classrooms. Students are thrilled to work with tools that respond quickly and reliably, without the connection or battery problems we had before. What excites them most is seeing their ideas come to life; whether it's programming the robot to navigate a maze or turning it into a mini artist by attaching markers to create colorful designs. These activities spark curiosity and keep students coming back to try new challenges.
One of my favorite moments so far has been seeing a fifth grade student, who often struggles to stay engaged in class, completely light up while coding an obstacle course. Watching them proudly show their classmates how the robot followed their program was such a powerful reminder of how this technology can build confidence and open new doors for learning. Thanks to this grant, we're able to provide more opportunities like this, and it's already making a big difference for our students. Thank you for believing in them and for helping us bring these incredible tools into our schools!”
With gratitude,
Mrs. LaDow
Exploring the World Through Chromebooks!
Funded Jun 13, 2017I want to thank you all for your support of my Chromebook project! These Chromebooks are already making a big impact on how I teach and how my students learn. They are used in reading centers on programs like MobyMax, that meets students at their level and helps them practice important skills in reading and math. They are also being used with websites like NewsELA, which allows students to read news articles on their own levels.
We are also already starting a big project with these Chromebooks! We are going to be working on a "global news" project through out the year. Every month students (in groups) will choose a new global news topic to research. They will find information, make a script, and eventually record a newscast. The Chromebooks will allow us to research, record the news segments, use video editing apps to create a quality product, and post and share our news with the word.
My students are extremely excited to start our news project. As one student said, "I've never done anything like this before!" This is a great opportunity for students to learn about the world beyond their own backyards. This project would not be possible without the use of Chromebooks and I'm deeply grateful I now have these resources in my classroom.”
With gratitude,
Mrs. LaDow
This classroom project was brought to life by Google.org and 4 other donors.