During a recent board meeting, members were introduced to Liz Wright, a professional development coach, who presented an engaging report on the integration of Lego education in local schools. The discussion highlighted the positive impact of hands-on learning experiences facilitated by Lego, which are currently implemented across various educational levels in the district.
Wright led a hands-on activity where attendees built structures using Lego bricks, demonstrating the cognitive skills developed through such exercises. She emphasized that Lego materials are available at 11 elementary schools and several middle schools, with ongoing efforts to expand their use in additional sites. The initiative aims to enhance STEM education and engage students in engineering challenges, coding, and creative problem-solving.
The board learned that the Lego kits, funded through various grants, cater to different age groups, from early education to middle school. Wright shared success stories from classrooms, including projects where students built functioning machines and amusement parks, showcasing the practical applications of their learning.
In response to inquiries about the program's reach, Wright explained that while some schools have embraced Lego education, others are still assessing its fit within their curriculum. She assured board members that efforts are underway to encourage broader adoption and that she is available to assist teachers in integrating these resources into their lessons.
The meeting concluded with discussions about potential donations of Lego materials from parents, further emphasizing community involvement in enhancing educational resources. Board members expressed their support for the initiative, recognizing its value in fostering creativity and critical thinking among students.