Federal Way Scholars Explore the Future of Technology During Computer Science Education Week

Federal Way Public Schools celebrated Computer Science Education Week from December 8 through December 12, uniting all FWPS schools with students around the globe who are participating in the worldwide Hour of Code and Hour of AI. This annual event introduces learners to the foundations of computer science and artificial intelligence in a fun and accessible way, reinforcing that anyone can learn the basics.

Throughout the week, FWPS scholars engaged in hands-on activities inspired by Code.org and CSEdWeek that build digital problem-solving, creativity, and computational thinking. Students explored how code, prompts, inputs, and design choices shape the technology we interact with every day. The focus of CSEdWeek, supported by partners across the world, is to broaden participation in computer science and promote equitable access for all students.

At Federal Way Public Academy, scholars used the Mix and Move with AI project to learn how prompts and logic influence outcomes in AI-generated animations and music. One student explained, “It can teach me how to code, and I’ll know code.” Another shared, “AI has become more part of our lives. The AI has become better now than ever before. It will be used in different ways that you didn’t know.”

At Thomas Jefferson High School, Game Design and Computer Engineering students applied what they have learned in web design, JavaScript, and game development. TJHS scholar Kelly shared, “I hope to learn how to make music into games and sync it up. In this class we usually practice hour of code.” She also added, “This year in my Game Design/Computer Engineering class I have learned basically web designing: HTML, Java script, coding games, and more. This year is a learning process and next semester we will start making our own games. This class helped me a lot about computers like coding in general and web design, java script, which I feel is very important in this industry.” TJHS scholar Krischana explained, “We worked together making a sprite game. We are using code we have learned to design our own game. For example, right now we are coding how the sprites interact, their velocity, how they move on the x,y axis, what happens when two sprites touch, etc.” TJHS scholar Julio added, “We are learning how to make music and how to program it into a game with code. I think this might be something I’d consider as a hobby after high school.”

At Woodmont K-8, students explored music production and coding through Code.org and the Amazon Music Lab. Fourth-grade scholar Steve shared, “I learned how to code and make my own music.” Celina added, “It was really fun,” while Aislinn said enthusiastically, “I learned that you can make music of your own!” Many other students also expressed excitement about discovering how to create music using code.

Superintendent Dr. Dani Pfeiffer shared, “Our scholars are Opportunity Makers. When they explore coding and AI, they build the creativity and technical confidence needed to open new doors. These activities help students see their power to create solutions and shape their future.”

FWPS encourages students and families to continue exploring computer science and AI learning all year long. Additional activities, resources, and grade-level challenges can be found in the FWPS Hour of Code online Canvas course by clicking here (Or, access grade level band-specific pages at Grades PreK-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, and Grades 9-12.)