Kids' Coding Symposium

Welcome to my Google Innovator Project!

In 2017, I had the honor of being one of 37 educators selected from the United States and Canada to take part in the Google Innovator Academy in Washington DC. This is my project. My hope is to contribute to the solution regarding the issues of gender equity and bias in the STEM fields at the elementary level.

As my school district's Ed Tech Coach, I visited classrooms of all grade levels to teach coding (often with Ozobot robots). While teaching, many students made it clear that they believed robots, technology and computer science was something “for boys only”. This was a challenge.

In response, I created the Kids’ Coding Symposium as an event for all elementary students to see girls “in action” as passionate, competent, and involved tech leaders. Before the symposium, I first met with 20 fifth grade girls (representing each of our six elementary schools) to prepare them for this event. As the date approached, they were ready and excited! In addition to making key decisions while planning the Symposium and becoming experts with the technology, the girls also formed a supportive friendship with each other.

I encourage YOU to consider hosting a Kid's Coding Symposium at your school or district. This site includes everything you need to get started and I'm also available if you have any questions or need any help.

Special thanks to my Google Innovator Mentor, Elizabeth Brumbaugh and the whole WDC cohort, including my WDC Coach, Amy Burvall! Thank you also to OUESD and the entire Oakley community for all of your support and donations. Finally, a heartfelt thank you to all of the Tech Leaders and participants who made this day possible!