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From Afterschool to Action in California: Three Ways ELOP Funds Power Coding for the Climate

From Afterschool to Action in California: Three Ways ELOP Funds Power Coding for the Climate

California is making climate literacy and computer science a priority in education. With the increased focus on climate change education and an expanding commitment to computer science, educators are looking for hands-on ways to engage students. Climate Action Kits are a powerful tool that blends coding, robotics, and sustainability, helping students apply computational thinking to real environmental issues. Built on the micro:bit, an easy-to-use microcontroller, kits provide an accessible introduction to block-based coding and physical computing.

Maximizing ELOP Funding for Hands-on, Climate-Focused Coding

Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) funding is empowering schools and out-of-school time (OST) programs to introduce computer science through climate action. In Districts across the State, Climate Action Kits are enhancing learning by offering hands-on experiences that complement and enhance California Next Generation Science Standards (CA-NGSS) by reinforcing STEM concepts and problem-solving skills. 

In the following applications in out-of-school time settings like afterschool programs, summer camps, and clubs—Climate Action Kits have proven to be an effective way to allocate ELOP funds for both resources and professional development.

Three Ways Schools and Programs Are Leveraging ELOP Funding for Climate-Focused Coding

ELOP Computer Science for Good Clubs: Coding with Purpose

Afterschool clubs are leveraging ELOP funding for Climate Action Kits to run STEM and coding programs while addressing sustainability topics like renewable energy, water conservation, and smart agriculture. These programs make computer science engaging and culturally relevant, building skills that prepare students for future careers.

Coding for a Greener Future, One School at a Time with ELOP Funding

Designated Climate Literacy Champions at hundreds of schools are using Climate Action Kits to enhance school-based climate initiatives during out-of-school time (OST). Climate Literacy Champions provide students with the resources, projects, and tutorials to program micro:bit sensors to collect data, design climate resilience solutions, and explore human impact on ecosystems. These ELOP-funded programs integrate coding with real-world environmental problem-solving, alongside other school-based climate literacy initiatives like rejuvenating school gardens and upcycling materials for water reclamation.

Male teacher helping students with Climate Action Kit project

Expanding Coding Access for Elementary-Aged Students Through County Offices of Education

At the San Bernardino County Office of Education (COE), they are introducing coding and climate literacy to their elementary schools. COE educators use Climate Action Kits to provide professional development (PD) sessions for educators that equip them to introduce coding into their programs, then provide kits to lead hands-on STEM and coding projects using Climate Action Kits.

Tonya Coates - Digital Learning and Computer Science Project Specialist at San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools says the Climate Action Kit transforms abstract climate concepts into tangible, interactive learning experiences for students. The blend of physical components and engaging lessons empowers students to be innovative and take action in solving local and global climate issues.

Why It Matters

  • Easy to Learn & Implement – Educators can quickly get up to speed with minimal prep, while the kit’s student-led design ensures an engaging, hands-on learning student-led learning experience.

  • Strengthens STEM Learning  – Hands-on coding and robotics activities reinforce CA-NGSS concepts in a dynamic way that compliments in-class learning.

  • Expands Computer Science Access – Easy, engaging introductions to coding in various school-based and OST environments improves access for students at all levels.

  • Inspires Future Green Tech Careers – Learners gain exposure to sustainability-focused careers and build the skills needed to join this growing field.

  • Natural fit for ELOP Funding – With a broad-range of lessons, tutorials, and open-ended learning opportunities, the Climate Action Kits are effective and affordable way to introduce coding and climate themes into OST programming.

Bringing Climate Action Coding to More Students

As California continues to emphasize climate and computer science education, Forward Education is ready to support OST programs, schools, and districts in their efforts. Whether through enrichment programs, afterschool clubs, or district-wide initiatives, to enhance CA-NGSS, Climate Action Kits offer a fun, impactful way to engage students in coding and sustainability.

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