Launch_K5 Computer Science

Welcome to Launch_K5 CS, where education takes flight into a realm of innovation and possibilities!

Dive into an immersive experience that integrates computational thinking, computer science, cybersecurity, and AI into core curricula, offering educators a unique opportunity to enhance their teaching approaches.

Discover a wealth of K-5 lessons, both unplugged and plugged, ready to be seamlessly integrated into your classrooms. Embrace the future of education as you explore block-based coding and physical computing – essential skills for fostering a generation of learners prepared to thrive in the modern world.

Key Highlights:

• Interactive Workshop: Immerse yourself in a transformative 3-day workshop that equips educators with the skills to seamlessly integrate computer science into their teaching practices.
• TEKS Alignment: Gain insights into aligning your teaching strategies with the latest Tech Apps TEKS, ensuring your curriculum is up-to-date and in line with educational standards.
• Inclusive Curriculum: Explore a comprehensive set of K-5 lessons, including both unplugged and plugged activities, that you can immediately implement in your classroom.
• Coding and Physical Computing: Embrace the future of education by learning about block-based coding and physical computing, essential skills for preparing our students for the digital age.

Scholarships Available!

Up to 50 educators who complete the Launch_K5 CS training requirements through Region 13 will receive, courtesy of WeTeach_CS:

1. No-cost registration for the 3-day training (up to $300 value)
   • Day 1 and Day 2 are in-person
   • Day 3 is a 6-hour online asynchronous course
2. Physical computing kits to begin their launch into CS! (up to $276 value)

Eligibility & Audience

To be eligible for the WeTeach_CS registration scholarship and physical computing kits, you must work at a Texas school that serves K-5 students and complete the Training Requirements below.

This opportunity best suits K-5 educators who are embedding the new Technology Applications TEKS into their regular instruction. Educators teaching the Technology Applications TEKS as a stand-alone course or rotation will also benefit.

Training Requirements

Completion of these training requirements ensures your eligibility for a WeTeach_CS registration scholarship and classroom computing kit. Scholarships and kits are guaranteed for Cohort 1 registrants who complete the requirements. Cohort 2 will be offered any scholarships/kits that remain after Cohort 1 ends.

• Day 1: Attend in-person training at ESC Region 13 (Friday, July 18, 2025)
• Day 2: Attend in-person training at ESC Region 13
  • Thursday, July 24 for educators teaching grades K - 2
  • Friday, July 25 for educators teaching grades 3 - 5
  • You may attend both grade band sessions (July 24 & 25), space permitting, but you must choose a single physical computing kit (either K-2 or 3-5; see below for more details)
    
• Day 3: Complete a 6-hour online course by Friday, September 5

Physical Computing Kits

• K-2 teachers who complete the Training Requirements will receive a set of the Vex 123 robots valued at $276, which includes:
  • 2 x 123 Robots in one of three colors
  • 2 x VEX Coders
  • 2 x 50-pack of Coder Cards in English
  • 1 x 123 Field
• 3-5 teachers who complete the Training Requirements will receive a set of micro:bits valued at $200, which includes:
  • 10 x BBC micro:bit V2 boards – available in 4 colors red, yellow, green & blue (please note you cannot select the color of the micro:bit you will receive)
  • 10 x micro USB cable
  • 10 x battery packs (for batteries)
  • 10 x packs of 2x AAA batteries
  • 10 x quick start user guides, safety leaflets, cardboard battery pack holders and stickers