Channeling a student’s passion for gaming is one of the most effective ways to ignite learning while opening doors to real-world STEM careers. By bringing Minecraft into the classroom, we turn complex concepts into interactive, play-based challenges that keep kids deeply engaged. Explore the district-wide Minecraft projects I’ve led below, and reach out anytime to see how we can bring these dynamic strategies into your classroom!

"An hour turns into a whole curriculum": In conversation with Minecraft Education Ambassador Shad Lacefield about Hour of Code (Exclusive)

Blocks, Blueprints, and Big Wins:

A groundbreaking collaboration between quality local craftsmanship and award-winning student gamers has wrapped up an exciting school year, leaving a lasting blueprint for career-based gaming in Fayette County Public Schools. Read more here

Beta Testing Hour of Code

In 2024 I partnered directly with Microsoft’s Minecraft Education team to turn Fayette County classrooms into real-world software testing labs. Students across Tates Creek Elementary, Picadome Elementary, and STEAM Academy served as beta testers for the global 2024 Hour of Code world (The Show Must Go On) prior to its worldwide release.

Through direct video sessions with Microsoft software leaders, students playtested the world, reported bugs, and provided critical feedback using block code and Python—giving young learners hands-on quality assurance experience and direct exposure to tech career pathways.

Read the full story here.

From Pixels to Parks: Real-World Civic Design with Minecraft Education

Partnering with Lexington Parks & Recreation, we launched a district-wide K–12 Minecraft Build Challenge that empowered Fayette County students to re-imagine real municipal spaces. Students across all grade levels—along with dedicated after-school programs like Girls Who Game—used Minecraft Education to navigate the urban planning process, crafting detailed 3D digital blueprints and layouts.

Taking their concepts beyond the classroom, students pitched their final designs directly to the Lexington City Council, earning the prestigious Spirit of Lexington Award for their community impact. The project came full circle when participating students stood alongside city leaders as honored guests at both the official groundbreaking and ribbon-cutting ceremonies for the physical park they helped design.

Elementary winner with mayor of Lexington

Students recieveing the Spirit of Lexington Award

Students at the ground breaking of Cardinal Run North

Student's at the open day of Cardinal Run North

Example resources we used as part of the project

Announcement

Need to Know

See the World

Rename Plants