The Gateway Initiative: Bridging Tactile Play and Digital Logic
Awarded $1500
Primary School computer science teacher Kenneshia Smith received funding for The Gateway Initiative, an innovative K–2 STEM project designed to help young learners build strong foundational thinking skills before they ever touch a screen. Using Montessori manipulatives and simple machine hardware to build mental models will ensure that students understand sequencing and if then logic through hands on exploration. Throughout the year, students will rotate through a scaffolded series of tactile and digital experiences, culminating in a “Junior Engineering Challenge” that blends simple machines with robotic problem solving.
The grant also supports a school wide Keyboarding Without Tears license, ensuring equitable digital access for all students.
Ultimately, this project not only strengthens early STEM identity but also prepares students for upper elementary robotics and future districtwide STEM opportunities.