Computer Science Education Week 2025

May the Code Be With You: The Droids Strike Back

In celebration of Computer Science Education Week (December 8–12, 2025), Spofford Pond Elementary School students participated in the Hour of AI, a new twist on the traditional Hour of Code. The Hour of AI is part of a global initiative that introduces students not only to coding but also to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence (AI), helping them understand how AI works and its impact on the world around them.

Throughout the week, each student dedicated an hour to exploring activities from our Hour of Code Choice Board. They solved coding puzzles, practiced logical thinking, and gained hands-on experience with programming concepts. Additionally, students learned about AI, including how computers can “learn” from data, recognize patterns, and make decisions. This exploration encouraged curiosity about the role of technology in daily life and the ethical considerations surrounding AI.

The week unfolded with excitement as students tackled challenges, collaborated with classmates, and reflected on the ways technology shapes our world. 

Essential Questions Explored:

How do computers solve problems and make decisions?
What is artificial intelligence, and how is it used in everyday life?
How can learning coding and AI skills prepare me for the future?

Events like the Hour of AI inspire students to think critically, analyze problems, and develop skills that go beyond the computer screen. By introducing AI alongside coding, Spofford Pond students gained a deeper understanding of technology and its possibilities, laying the groundwork for future careers in programming, AI, and other tech-driven fields.

2016 Massachusetts Digital Literacy and Computer Science (DLCS) Curriculum Framework:

3-5.CT.b; 3-5.CT.d; 6-8.CT.b; 6-8.CT.d

Robotics

Sphero Spectacular: A “Float-tastic” Fifth Grade Parade!

This week, fifth graders in Mrs. Cimmings's class brought the spirit of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade directly into the classroom—robot edition! As an introduction to Spheros, students designed their own balloon floats, attached them to the robots, and navigated their Spheros through a parade route.
This hands-on challenge allowed students to explore how robotics work, experiment with movement controls, and understand how physical design affects motion. Students brainstormed float ideas, engineered lightweight designs, and practiced carefully steering their Spheros so their creations could “march” the full parade route.
The activity combined creativity, collaboration, and emerging computer science skills. Laughter echoed around the room as students adjusted float designs, avoided “parade collisions,” and celebrated successful runs down the route.
What Skills and Standards Did Students Practice?Massachusetts Digital Literacy & Computer Science (DLCS), Grades 3–5.CS.a
Describe how computing devices follow input commands (students used the Sphero app controls).Demonstrate how robots respond to inputs and produce outputs (movement, lights).Compare and discuss solutions to improve robot navigation and float stability.Demonstrate perseverance and mindset when working through obstacles (wobbling floats, steering challenges).
Essential QuestionsHow do robots respond to the commands we give them?How does the design of an object affect how well it moves when attached to a robot?What strategies help us collaborate, troubleshoot, and improve our ideas?