The Hour of Code Space University set its orbit across the district, bringing hands-on coding, creativity, and collaboration to students one school at a time.
During the first launch at Highview Elementary, the Innovation Lab was transformed into Falcon Fleet Mission Control for a schoolwide Hour of Code experience. Through the immersive program, students explored real-world engineering concepts using interactive technology and problem-solving challenges.
Over the course of the week, students rotated through space-themed coding missions using Dash robots, Ozobots, and Pixicade, guided by School Library Media Specialist and STEAM Instructor Danielle Dyroff and Technical Support Specialist Victoria Bolton. Each session encouraged students to think like engineers by testing, revising, and improving their work using the Engineering Design Process.
One of the standout moments came during the Pixicade Falcon 1 mission, where students designed and published their own video games. Special Education students, in particular, made history as every student successfully completed and published a playable game.
“As I filmed students playing their games, their focus and engagement were remarkable,” shared Ms. Dyroff. “Teachers held their breath as players navigated hazards, and the room erupted with excitement when missions were completed. Students beamed as they pressed ‘publish’ to send their games into the Pixicade universe.”
Woodlands High School students were also part of the space crew, working side by side with the younger Falcons. WHS volunteers Samantha and Chloe supported students throughout the stations and observed their problem-solving in action. Both were impressed by the focus, collaboration, and independence demonstrated by the younger learners.
“The students did fantastic,” said Chloe. “They were able to follow the directions correctly. It went really well, and it was clear that they had a lot of fun doing it,” added Samantha.
Throughout the experience, students worked in groups to complete challenges such as guiding Dash robots through lunar obstacle courses, mapping Mars rover routes with Ozobots, and designing space-flight games that required precision, creativity, and persistence. When missions did not go as planned, students naturally returned to the posted Engineering Design Process to test, improve, and try again.
The program was designed not only to support science and math learning in the classroom, but also to reinforce IB PYP learning goals, including inquiry, communication, and reflection. Most importantly, it helps students see themselves as capable problem-solvers and innovators.
By the end of the week, Highview’s young engineers walked away with new coding skills, increased confidence, and a deeper sense of curiosity about the world around them. Students strengthened their understanding of how technology supports innovation on Earth and beyond.
Following Highview’s launch, the Space University experience continued at ECP, LFJ and RJB, extending hands-on coding and engineering opportunities across the district’s learning galaxy.
Mission accomplished.