Message From the Principal

This week was Computer Science Education Week all over the world. Every student at Marshall Lane participated in the “Hour of Code” which is a global movement reaching tens of millions of students in 180+ countries. It is designed to demystify code and show that anybody can learn the basics of computer science.

 Due to the generosity of our school district, Marshall Lane received 6 Bluebot robots and 8 Dash robots last week.  At our staff meeting, teachers learned how to use the robots.  These are not toys, but rather tools to teach students how to code. 

 Over the past three days, we have had two district coaches, our own site coach, Michelle Beddo and one of our teachers, Meghan Snelham, who works with our teachers on technology integration, visit many of our classrooms to teach students how to use the robots. The children and their teachers were so excited to learn to code the robots to follow commands.  Ask your child about this experience. Our teachers will continue to use these fantastic learning tools throughout the school year.

 Whatever careers our students pursue, their ability to succeed will increasingly hinge on understanding technology. However, only a small percentage of us are studying computer science. Fewer students are studying it than a decade ago.  We want to help provide our students with the skills and abilities to help them have college and career success.  For more information visit: http://hourofcode.com/us 

 The holidays have almost arrived and our two-week break is coming up.  Whatever you celebrate, we hope that you and your family will have time to rest and relax as you enjoy the holidays.

 As always, thank you for your help and continuing support!  HAPPY NEW YEAR!

 Priscilla Spencer, principal