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The role of tech inside the classroom

Get an insider look at the classroom and the role that technology plays at BC

Technology has found its way into just about every corner of our lives, becoming an inevitable tool to learn how to navigate. Brooklyn Center Community Schools remains committed to preparing our students for the ever-changing world ahead, introducing them to various types of technology and using tech as a tool for learning in the classroom. 

Read about big-picture technology use at BCCS.

This technology introduction begins at Brooklyn Center Elementary as students use iPads as a classroom tool, discover 3D printers, and learn how to code. The youngest learners spend time exploring different materials like legos and blocks and discovering Bee-Bots, introductory programmable robots. This year, first graders will discover a new Project Lead the Way (PLTW) module on the sun, moon, and stars, observing patterns and building a foundation of understanding of space. By the time they’re in fourth grade, students use the TinkerCAD application to get creative designing their own objects, then see them come to life through 3D printing, advancing their design skills as they get more comfortable with the technology. 

PLTW/STEAM Teacher Camille Primoli expressed her excitement for these learning opportunities, including what’s in store for fifth graders. “We do a water unit in fifth grade where they build a water filter and research different ways to filter water, gaining a deep understanding of the water cycle,” Primoli shared. One of the biggest sources of excitement for fifth graders, however, is their Battle Bots unit. While Bee-Bots lay the groundwork for kindergarteners, fifth graders will program Sphero robots and code them to connect to remote controls. They’ll learn how to make their robot’s name scroll across a screen, design an arena, and take their robots to battle. Primoli emphasized the importance of teachers having what they need to be able to use the technology and keeping these resources up-to-date and available for licensed staff to guide students and provide technology literacy.

A fifth grader teaches kindergarteners about Bee-Bots at Brooklyn Center Elementary

BCS PLTW Gateway Teacher D. Carlos Seehusen echoed this sentiment. “We have so many opportunities for students to explore things in the classroom as long as we can provide the materials,” he said. “This sets them up for a lot of success in the future, but it’s entirely dependent on us having the funding to provide these classes.” Seehusen shared about the Automation and Robotics class for sixth graders where they build and program robots fit for their grade level, and the Computer Science for Innovators and Makers class for seventh graders where they learn to program microprocessors. “Right now we don't have enough microprocessors for every student to get one, so we're having to run simulations that they then test out. It's less hands-on, and they don't necessarily get the full experience,” Seehusen said.

The essential need for up-to-date technology lies not just in robotics and computer science, but in access to basic devices like those in BCS Career Exploration and Work Teacher Rachel Jorgensen’s classroom. Her students rely on technology to conduct college and career research, engage with virtual guest speakers, and prepare for their futures. Jorgensen also hosts classroom time for a new certified nursing program offered by Brooklyn Center High School this year in partnership with Hennepin Technical College. The program has a hybrid model, and seventeen BCHS students attend class virtually for a part of the week, then attend on site at Hennepin Tech. 

BCHS students begin their on site classes for the certified nursing program at Hennepin Technical College

“If the technology isn't up to par, we leave our students behind because they aren't able to access the most relevant resources and learn the tech skills that make them competitive and viable,” said Jorgensen.

To meet growing needs for updated and relevant technology and prepare students for the future, Brooklyn Center Community Schools will hold a one-question referendum on Election Day Nov. 5. This question will ask residents to consider a capital projects levy that would invest in technology updates, enhanced safety and security, and instructional resources and training. Learn more about the upcoming referendum.

“There are tons of tech-related careers available just waiting for our students, and a high demand in these industries, but unless our kids know about them and get introduced to them, they will never know what is out there,” said Seehusen. “Unless we have the technology available for them to explore, they'll never know about it or have the opportunity to try it out.”