Hour of Code

We live in a world surrounded by technology. But only a tiny fraction of students learn how computers work, or how to create software technology. Computer Science provides a foundation for virtually any career and all our students can benefit from learning the basics. 

This year, for Computer Science Education Week, a massive campaign called the Hour of Code is introducing 10 million students to try one hour of introductory computer science.

Watch the video below to find out more or check out the Hour of Code website by clicking here.  At Roosevelt, we are offering the Hour of Code to classrooms, and the computer club is participating during their meeting.   You can also participate at home if you'd like!   Check out the Hour of Code website if you are interested.

I hope everyone has a restful and relaxing Thanksgiving Break!

iPads in K-2 at Roosevelt

As you may or may not know, in Kindergarten through Second Grade, our classrooms have 1 iPad for every 4 students in their classrooms.   Each teacher is implementing these iPads in a way that best fits the needs of their classrooms, so it will not be the same in each classroom.  However, one of the questions that our primary teachers have been asked is what apps are on the iPads and where can we download them?   As of today, we now have these apps in a location for parents to see what apps are on the iPads and a link for you to download them.  Please take a moment to check out the new iPad Apps site!  If you have any questions, please let me know!

https://sites.google.com/a/d64.org/ro-ipad-apps/home

Check out the new RO iPad App Site

Common Sense Media: A Great Resource for Families

Common Sense Media is a wonderful resource for families to utilize in terms of seeking out what's going on in the world of media - which is a huge part of our children's lives today.  From movies, TV, apps, games, etc., Common Sense Media has a range of resources to help parents educate themselves on what's age appropriate and what's best for kids.   Common Sense Media is dedicated to improving the lives of kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in a world of media and technology. You can access a variety of content from Common Sense Media just by going on their site, however, there are even more resources if you create a free account.   Click here to visit Common Sense Media. 

One thing that I highly suggest reviewing together as a family is the  Digital Citizenship Section.  It's important in the world we live in today to be open about what the expectations are for being a good Digital Citizen, and how to stay safe online.   By law, we teach students on a yearly basis about what it means to a good digital citizen at school.  Common Sense Media has some great resources for how to continue this conversation at home. Click here if you'd like to read more and to see a helpful video you can share with your children.  

If you'd like to see a topic featured on the Roosevelt Bits and Bytes Blog, please leave a comment below.  I'd love to know what topics you'd like to see featured!  Thanks for reading!