KidsTek uses project-based lessons that teach both basic and advanced computer skills through a fun and hands-on approach

KidsTek uses project-based lessons that teach both basic and advanced computer skills through a fun and hands-on approach

KidsTek uses project-based lessons that teach both basic and advanced computer skills through a fun and hands-on approach

KidsTek teaches and reinforces skills through projects using:

the power of the

Internet

the most commonly

used productivity

software

multimedia applications that engage

students with the

possibilities for using

technology to

communicate their ideas

the power of the

Internet

the most commonly

used productivity

software

multimedia applications that engage

students with the

possibilities for using

technology to

communicate their ideas

the most commonly

used productivity

software

multimedia applications that engage

students with the

possibilities for using

technology to

communicate their ideas

multimedia applications that engage

students with the

possibilities for using

technology to

communicate their ideas

Why KidsTek?

In-school technology classes are elective, not a required subject… KidsTek provides another opportunity for students to improve their real-world computer skills.

Lack of basic computer skills limits opportunity

Schools in disadvantaged neighborhoods often have the computer hardware but may lack instructors who can lead a structured program during after school hours.

KidsTek teams with schools to provide a low-cost, efficient way to “Bridge the Digital Divide” through project-based learning!

Why KidsTek?

KidsTek provides instructor, lessons, and program management

KidsTek provides instructor, lessons, and program management

Program Host Site provides facility, computer lab, and student enrollment

KidsTek provides instructor, lessons, and program management

KidsTek and Partners share responsibility for fund raising

Program Host Site provides facility, computer lab, and student enrollment

KidsTek provides instructor, lessons, and program management

KidsTek and Partners share responsibility for fund raising

Students pay no tuition and come ready to learn

Program Host Site provides facility, computer lab, and student enrollment

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History• 1999 – Founded by Colorado Software and Internet Association (CSIA) Board to

provide a technology oriented way for our community to give back – As the Colorado Technology Community Foundation, funded the

development and management of computer skills training for Metro Denver Boys & Girls Clubs

• 2004 – Launched KidsTek, a 501(c)(3) direct service provider for schools and other youth-serving organizations.

• 2005 – Expanded into Larimer County Boys & Girls Clubs

• 2006 – Expanded into Aurora Pubic Schools via the COMPASS After School Program, and adopted National Educational Technology Standards (NETS) as a basis for lesson plans.

• 2007 – Created three areas of emphasis:– Tech12 – providing a continual technology education experience K

through 12– Tech To Tomorrow - increasing career and college exploration

opportunities for high school students with a focus on the use of technology in all careers

– Girls Need Tech Too - increasing female participation in after-school technology programs, with a goal of gender parity in KidsTek programs by 2010

• 2008/09 – Expanded into Denver Public Schools

• 2009/2010 – Began in-school technology certification classes in Denver Public Schools

KidsTek Program Tracks• Elementary-aged students learn that technology

is fun and exciting through projects that incorporate basic computer skills.

• Middle school programs strengthen practical computer skills through engaging projects using music, art, video, game design, conceptual design and more.

• High school students develop advanced technology skills in one of these two areas:– In-school technical certification courses (Cisco Systems,

Sun Microsystems) providing skills to be successful in the workplace or to prepare students for a technical college education.

– College and career exploration courses, allowing students to leverage technology to explore higher education opportunities and the college application process, as well as how to research and prepare for various career paths.

Aurora Public Schools• KidsTek is a core provider

for APS’s COMPASS After School Program for disadvantaged students

• KidsTek serves COMPASS schools from K-12• Fletcher, Sable &

Vaughn Elementary Schools

• North, South, East & West Middle Schools

• Aurora Central High School

• More than a dozen classes offered weekly during the school year

Denver Public Schools

• Started in 2007 at Manual High School and expanded to seven schools for the 2010-2011 school year:

• Stedman, Johnson and Force Elementary Schools

• Cole Arts & Science Academy

• Noel Middle School• Manual High School• Montbello High

School