Computational Thinking Implementation

The KIPP Computational Thinking Project is dedicated to creating K-8 pathways where every student — not just the ones who already see themselves as “good” at Math, Science, or Technology — is exposed to engineering and computer science from Kindergarten through 8th grade. Students can't elect a career pathway they've never had the chance to see themselves in: research shows stereotypes about who "belongs" in CS/engineering form as early as age six, causing girls and students of color to disengage years before high school CS courses are even offered.

But research also makes clear that exposure alone isn't enough — what matters is the quality of that exposure, sustained over years, not a single unit or elective checked off a list. We've seen this play out firsthand — CT implementation in our own K-8 schools has helped fuel real growth in CS and Engineering enrollment at the high school level, and in the college majors that follow.

By high school, we want students choosing these courses not because they're taking a leap, but because they've spent a decade building the skills and identity to know they belong there.