Launch_K5 Computer Science (June Cohort)

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 on Wednesday, June 24, 2026
• Day 2: Attend in-person training at ESC Region 13 on Thursday, June 25, 2026
• Day 3: Complete a 6-hour online course by Friday, July 31, 2026
  • Optional in-person office hours for support with the online course is available on Wednesday, July 15. You do NOT need to attend on this day unless you want support completing the online course.

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