Grant Highlight: Finch Robots

Grant Story: Finch Robots – Bringing Computer Science to Life

Thanks to the generous support of Westside Foundation donors, the 7th-grade Business and Technology class has been able to work with Finch Robots, a powerful tool that makes computer science come to life. These programmable robots allowed students to engage with coding in a tangible and interactive way, transforming abstract concepts into something they could see, touch, and control.

The Finch Robot program empowered students to create their own commands through Microbit technology and then pair them with the robot to see their code come to life in real time. This hands-on experience not only solidified their understanding of programming but also fostered teamwork and creativity through pair programming. By working together in groups, students had the chance to collaborate, solve problems, and innovate—all while having fun!

One of the most exciting moments came when students used their programming skills to guide the Finch Robots through an obstacle course. This project was the culmination of their learning, providing a real-world application of coding skills. The students demonstrated their knowledge, engaged in meaningful problem-solving, and felt a sense of accomplishment as they watched their robots navigate the course based on the programs they had written.

The impact of the Finch Robots goes beyond just learning code. They’ve sparked a passion for technology and teamwork in every student who participated, offering these students a glimpse into the world of business and technology in a way that is both fun and educational.

With continued support, the Middle School plans to expand this initiative and give more students the opportunity to experience the world of technology in a hands-on, engaging way. Thank you for making this learning experience possible. Your generosity is shaping the future of our students, one robot at a time.