How I got into CS...

 I began teaching after school programs for Sheridan County School District #2,  7 years ago. I first started with Lego WeDo kits.  At the time, I was just following the directions, not knowing that I was teaching students how to code! The students loved it and caught on quicker than I did. Next, I expanded into Lego Mindstorm kits.  Students were not only constructing robots in both of these programs, but they were coding them as well. After following the step by step directions with success, students were free to add or change the designs and codes to see what might happen.  We were constantly debugging  code and engineering new designs to make each day. ​

Lego Wedo

LEGO MINDSTORMs

The next year, I had my first experience in teaching coding. We used Code.org to dip our toes into the world of coding. They have a great platform that is very easy for teachers with zero coding experience to jump into.  It is also highly engaging for the students using both unplugged and plugged activities with videos to enhance the lessons.  

SEVEN YEARS LATER...
I now am the Computer Science Youth Outreach Coordinator for NWCC in Sheridan, Wyoming.  I have the best job in the world because I get to help elementary teachers and students learn Computer Science.  This past year I helped bring coding into over 40 K-5 classrooms in SCSD2 district. We have almost 1,000 students learning how to code each week.  I conduct trainings, create resources, and make lessons that are seamlessly integrated into the normal K-5 curriculum.  See the Computer Science page for sample projects from our students and example lessons.