TASD to promote computer sciences

Texarkana, Ark., School District is holding events all week to promote computer science. Hour of Code, a global movement reaching students in more than 180 countries, is a one-hour introduction to computer science designed to demystify code and show that anyone can learn the basics of coding.

At 9 a.m. Monday, state Rep. Prissy Hickerson and city Director Laney Harris will help kick off the event at College Hill Middle School, with Harris reading a proclamation. In addition, Harris will read a letter Gov. Asa Hutchinson wrote to the school about Hour of Code. Students, teachers and guests will “build a galaxy” with code and receive a certificate upon completion.

At 1 p.m., Union Elementary will hold Code Like a Girl, with a select number of female students in kindergarten through fourth grade participating in Hour of Code.

North Heights Junior High will participate at 10:35 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday using Chromebooks, iPads and computers to create a 10-second video clip to answer the question, “What did you learn about coding during the Hour of Code?” A reflection video compilation will be created from these to encourage parents and students to enroll in computer science and coding courses.

Washington Charter Academy School will code an animated dance scene and design games from 8 a.m. to 10:35 a.m. Wednesday.

Hour of Code will be held from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Thursday at Arkansas High School involving coding with Microsoft Minecraft including Javascript.

Hour of Code is organized by code.org, a public nonprofit dedicated to expanding participation in computer science by making it available in more schools and increasing participation by women and under-represented students of color.