This week, Goochland Elementary is excited to celebrate Computer Science Education Week, a nationwide effort recognizing the importance of teaching students how technology works and how they can become creators — not just consumers — of the digital tools that shape our world.
What Computer Science Means in Virginia
Virginia’s Computer Science Standards of Learning set high expectations for computational learning from kindergarten all the way through 12th grade. Students build a strong foundation in computer science and learn new ways to solve problems using computational thinking. These skills help students thrive in a digital world by empowering them to understand, question, and create with technology.
Computer Science vs. Digital Learning Integration
While both areas support student success, Computer Science and Digital Learning Integration are not the same.
Computer Science focuses on computational thinking, programming, algorithms, data, and understanding how technologies work.
Digital Learning Integration emphasizes using digital tools to enhance curriculum, communication, collaboration, and creativity.
Both are essential — and together they help prepare students to be thoughtful, capable learners in a connected world.
Our GCPS Computer Science Ambassadors
GES is proud to have a dedicated team of Computer Science Ambassadors — GCPS teachers who collaborate with Mrs. Noone, Instructional Technology Coach at GES, to study the state standards and identify meaningful, developmentally appropriate ways to bring computer science to every grade level. Their work helps ensure all students engage with rich, hands-on computational learning throughout the year.
Computer Science in Action This Week
During Library Encore, students will be diving into Computer Science through activities focused on algorithms and programming. These experiences give students a fun and engaging way to explore the building blocks of coding and problem-solving.
How This Connects to the Profile of a Goochland Graduate
Our computer science work isn’t just about coding — it directly supports the attributes outlined in the Profile of a Goochland Graduate. Through CS activities, students have opportunities to:
Use creative and analytic thinking to identify challenges, develop solutions, and create value through innovation.
Demonstrate collaboration, communication, and purposeful work as they plan, test, and share their coding or algorithm projects.
Build resilience and adaptability — key traits in the Profile — by debugging code, revising their work, and learning from mistakes. This mirrors the Profile’s emphasis on using setbacks as opportunities to grow.
Practice digital literacy and problem-solving skills that will serve them well in future academic, personal, and professional endeavors. Research shows that computer science education supports critical thinking, creativity, and real-world problem solving.
In this way, Computer Science Week isn’t just a special event — it’s part of our long-term commitment to helping students become the kind of graduates we envision: thoughtful, capable, creative, and ready for the future.
Looking Ahead: Save the Date!
Mark your calendars for our division wide celebration of innovation:
✨ Future Forward Fest
📅 Thursday, February 19, 2026
🕠 5:30–7:00 PM
📍 GCPS Secondary Complex
Families will be able to explore student work from across the division and see how GCPS is preparing learners for a bright, future-ready world.