CS Discoveries (grades 7-9)

If you are a Wisconsin middle school teacher (grades 7, 8 and/or 9) interested in teaching Computer Science, apply for the Computer Science Discoveries (CSD) Professional Learning Program.

Curriculum: CS Discoveries is a full-year introductory computer science survey course, which can also be implemented as two standalone semesters. The course takes a wide lens on computer science by covering topics such as programming, physical computing, HTML/CSS, and data. Students are empowered to create authentic artifacts and engage with CS as a medium for creativity, communication, problem solving, and fun.

Program Structure: This year-long professional learning program begins with a 5-day summer workshop. During the school year, continuing professional development includes 20 hours of online, self-paced content, and 4 days of in-person Saturday workshops to be held quarterly.

Requirements: Teachers must be certified middle school teachers in any discipline. Teachers must apply to participate. (See below.) Preference will be given to teachers who teach at a middle school that schedules CSD to be offered in the academic year following their first summer workshop.

Costs: The cost of the CS Discoveries teacher professional development program is for nine days of workshop. Full and partial scholarships are available to cover program costs for many eligible applicants, thanks to generous support from Code.org, National Science Foundation, and others.
Curriculum materials are freely available. A moderate investment in equipment (Circuit Playground Arduinos) may be necessary for schools that intend to implement Unit 6, "The Internet of Things".