Franklin Square Union Free School District launched a new after-school opportunity for fifth graders this school year, the Coding Club.
In this club, led by district STEAM teacher Matthew Dornemann and district coding teacher Julia Caiazzo, students explored the basics of computer programming using KidOYO, a fun and interactive online learning platform. Along the way, they strengthened important skills like problem-solving and creativity.
From Nov. 13-Feb. 10, 17 fifth grade students from across the district met once a week after school in the Polk Street School STEAM Lab to learn and create together. Using the Scratch programming language, students engaged in creative computing challenges while building skills to create their own coding projects including games, animations and interactive stories.
During the final session, students took part in a “mini hackathon,” a friendly competition where they put their new skills to the test. Using KidOYO programs Hatch! and Sprite Editor, they completed challenges that required them to design, think critically and solve problems.
The top eight students from the competition will earn the opportunity to represent the district at the KidOYO Upper Elementary Division Code Conquest Hackathon on April 24.
