Arrowhead United Way’s program lets students go behind the scenes in video game design

Arrowhead United Way sponsored a “Kids That Code” workshop at Cal State San Bernardino Oct. 22.

Twenty-five fifth and sixth graders from participating school districts, including Rialto Unified School District, Rim of the World Unified School District and San Bernardino City Unified School District, designed their own video games using interactive software that teaches students problem solving, critical reasoning, creativity and math concepts.

Students were introduced to Scratch, the “Lego Block” style program that allows students to share interactive media like stories, game and animations online to help them construct their own video games.

“We want to prepare our future workforce for the types of jobs that will be available in the next decade,” said CEO and President of Arrowhead United Way Doug Rowand. “Technology and STEM-related industries are on the rise and it is our goal to provide students access to education that supports their futures.”

Kids That Code is an organization born out of CSUSB dedicated to educating students on the value of computer programing. Their fun, interactive programs reinforce classroom skills that help students succeed in school.

Because of generous donors like Southern California Edison, Arrowhead United Way is proud to spearhead this no-cost “Kids That Code” workshop. It is committed to bettering the lives of those in our community through health, income, and most importantly, STEM education. Arrowhead United Way is improving our county’s educational access and academic success to benefit the community’s economic prosperity.

~Arrowhead United Way