Local schools and community to celebrate Computer Science Education Week

WENATCHEE -- Schools across North Central Washington are joining a nationwide initiative to promote computer science education through interactive events and community partnerships this December.

Computer Science Education Week, running December 9-14, will feature "Hour of Code" events at Lincoln Elementary, George Elementary, Waterville, Quincy Innovation Academy, Mansfield Elementary and High School, Ancient Lakes Elementary, Columbia Middle School, Cascade High School, Mountain View Elementary, Eastmont Junior High School, Sterling Junior High School, St. Paul's Lutheran School, Monument Elementary, Valley Academy, Almira Coulee Hartline High School, and Coulee City Elementary.

Two major community events highlight this year's celebration. The NCW Tech Alliance is organizing "Code Green: Tech Recycle & Reuse Event" on December 10 at their Moses Lake facility. The event, part of their Computers for Community program, invites participants to help refurbish outdated computers for donation.

"The Apple STEM Network is thrilled to bring together students, families, and community members to celebrate the possibilities of computer science," said Holly Bringman, Apple STEM Network Coordinator. "Whether through the Hour of Code or engaging events like Santa's Little Computer Science Workshop, we're inspiring the next generation of tech innovators while creating a shared appreciation for the impact of technology."

The week culminates with "Santa's Computer Science Workshop" at Pybus Market on December 14. The free event, scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon, offers hands-on activities, including coding, AI prompt engineering, and creating electric circuit Christmas cards.

The initiative brings together several prominent organizations, including Microsoft, NCW Libraries, the Wenatchee Valley Museum and Cultural Center, Hooked on Toys, and the North Central Educational Services District. These partnerships underscore a growing emphasis on technology education in the region.

The Code Green event will take place at 1000 Bolling Street NE in Moses Lake, housed in the NCW Tech Alliance Building on the Big Bend Community College Campus. Organizers stress that no prior experience is necessary for participation.

Additional information about these events can be found at www.applestemnetwork.org.