Bloomington Public Schools (BPS) received a $17,000 grant from the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) to support its computer science education efforts. 

With a commitment to advancing K-12 computer science education, BPS will utilize the grant to host community-based pop-up events. These events, conducted in partnership with the district’s Office of Educational Equity, will focus on expanding access to computer science for all community members, with a particular emphasis on reaching underrepresented populations.

A similar Computer Science Community Night was held at Olson Middle School in November. Hundreds of students and families attended to explore, play and learn through interactive activities and demos. A Computer Science Community Night is scheduled for Tuesday, April 15 at Valley View Middle School. Other pop-up events are in the planning stages.

The grant is part of the state’s Computer Science Education Advancement Act to improve and increase access to computer science learning opportunities across Minnesota.