Minnesota's leader in K-12 computer science education
We believe talent is everywhere, so we make opportunities universal by giving learners hands-on computer science experiences early and often. Our programs remove barriers and empower learners to become thoughtful creators, not just consumers. They use technology to joyfully solve real-world challenges, critically evaluate what they encounter, and build a sense of identity and belonging as they shape a better world.
Computer Science in Action
Here, students learn the skills, knowledge, and mindsets necessary to leverage the power of computers to solve problems and express themselves. Our Next Technologies for Learning plan identifies computer science as a critical component to building creative problem solvers and providing pathways to career and college. In the 21st century, we need citizens who are not only digitally literate, but able to solve problems and innovate through computer science.
Students learn computational thinking skills through computer science experiences that help in all subject areas. Every day our students are learning about problem solving, logic, patterns, breaking things into smaller parts, writing steps and rules, and more. These thinking skills help students now with reading, writing, and math and prepare them to be the thinkers, problem solvers, and computer scientists of tomorrow.
We create opportunities for students to experience computer science through physical movement, robotics, on screen coding programs, real world design challenges, and creating solutions and expressions of themselves. Our students make “computers” out of paper, make their friends into “robots”, and tell stories by coding on screen.
Computer science education is most impactful when it’s built through community. In Bloomington, our programs are strengthened by deep partnerships across Minnesota’s computer science ecosystem. These collaborators bring expertise in curriculum design, outreach, industry trends, and student engagement, ensuring our learners see themselves reflected in technology’s future. Together, we’re committed to expanding access to high-quality opportunities and helping all students find their place in computer science.
BPS’s K-12+ computer science pathway was created in collaboration with the University of Minnesota’s Learning & Technologies Collaborative. The program is designed to maximize learning through the use of best practices in computer science education. Many career fields depend on solutions created by computer science such as robotics, applications, websites, data analysis tools, records, or artificial intelligence. We continue to expand this pathway to ensure all students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to thrive in a connected computational world. At the core of our work is a commitment to equity and representation within computer science education.
Glitch is our computer science mascot, who makes regular appearances at schools and community engagement events.
Alexandra Holter
K-12 Computer Science Coordinator
952-681-6552
aholter@isd271.org