Help me give my students the ability to learn programming using a Raspberry Pi device that will open up more opportunities to learn higher level languages and increase their interest in computer science.
As a teacher in a high poverty school, my students are faced with several challenges both in and out of the classroom. Despite the many challenges they face, I am looking to create an environment where they can experience things in the classroom they may never have the opportunity to in their lives.
They like to be noticed, work hard, and have a desire to be successful.
Many students are being raised in single parent or blended households and receive a free or reduced lunch based on their socioeconomic status. These things may prevent them from getting ahead early in life and may not provide them with the life experiences many of us see as "typical". From the minute they walk in the door of my classroom I focus on their potential and growth while they are with me. I may not be able to control their home lives, however, I can certainly control their experience during the school day. I am hopeful to inspire even our learners with challenges in and out of school to continue on a path of heightened interest in fields they may never be able to explore.
My Project
Many students are interested in learning how to program computers and mobile devices. Our school currently does not offer any programming classes (they were cut two years ago), so I have started a club after school to work with those students who are passionate about computers and programming in general. Our district has Chromebooks deployed for every student, but there are many limitations on what the Chromebook can do with higher level programming languages (especially Python and Java). Students will use these Raspberry Pi devices to learn how to program in Java, Python, Javascript, and many others. Students will also learn how to set up these devices to work with peripherals and understand how an operating system has to be built and installed on the Raspberry Pi device.
The goal of using the Raspberry Pi devices is to fill a void that our district has left with middle school students I work with.
They will be able to use not only the knowledge they gain, but spread the word on how fun and engaging programming can be, and hopefully bring back a program that will spark the next generation of computer scientists.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mr. Thompson and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
