Happy Computer Science Education Week 💻

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Computer Science Education Week is December 4 - 10

Computer Science Education (CSEd) Week is an annual call to action to inspire students to learn computer science, advocate for equity, and celebrate the contributions of students, teachers, and partners to the field. This week, we are celebrating FIRST^® mentors and educators and how they are positively impacting their students in the world of computer science.

Marianela, a member of the 2023 Inspire the Future: FIRST Educators Recognition Program cohort, is an elementary school computer science teacher. We’re highlighting how she is building inclusive and comprehensive learning experiences that inspire her students.

Computer Science Kahoot!

Searching for the perfect Computer Science activity to expand your education during #CSEdWeek? Look no further than our Kahoot! page. Developed by the FIRST Education Team, these Computer Science themed activities are the perfect way to brush up on your knowledge and learn something new.

Check out our Computer Science Kahoot! page >>

Donor Spotlight: Meet Michael, FIRST^® Donor, Volunteer, Coach and Parent

Michael has been a FIRST volunteer and team coach for 14 years. He is the proud parent of a FIRST alum and participates in his employer’s matching gift program to support the FIRST mission. Mike gives because, he says, “investing in the youth is investing in our future. I believe FIRST is changing the world by giving students the tools and experiences they need to work together and do great things.”

FIRST Inspire Gala Auction Open

This year's silent Inspire Gala auction, benefitting FIRST, is open to the entire community; participate from wherever you are, no need to attend in person. Check out unique experiences and products offered exclusively to FIRST, including trips and DIY STEM Kits perfect for home or the classroom. Take home limited retro and historic FIRST items. Meet industry entrepreneurs and FIRST leaders one-on-one, including Dean Kamen, will.i.am., Martine Rothblatt, Chris Moore, and more!

Bid on your favorites from now until 8:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday, December 6, at firstinspires.org/gala >>

Inspire the Future Nominations for Educators and Schools Close Soon

Closing this Friday, December 8: Nominate outstanding FIRST educators and schools who inspire their learning communities and advance the mission of FIRST.

#PeopleofSTEAM: meet Ken

As the founder and CEO of The Neurodiversity Education Research Center (NERC), Ken works to improve access to quality education and workforce development for Neurodivergent people every day. Ken has firsthand experience starting a FIRST^® LEGO^® League team for autistic students, and was committed to weaving FIRST into the curriculum at Science Prep Academy. This approach helps students get real-world knowledge and experience along with learning FIRST Core Values that help them become confident problem solvers and critical thinkers.

www.firstinspires.org

OUR VISION: “...to transform our culture by creating a world where science and technology are celebrated and where young people dream of becoming science and technology leaders.”
— Dean Kamen, Founder