News Summary
The Coronado Unified School District is enhancing educational opportunities by expanding robotics programming and implementing a comprehensive computer science curriculum across all schools. This initiative, in partnership with the Coronado Schools Foundation and DoDEA, aims to foster technologically competent students. Elementary robotics clubs will be introduced, and by spring 2026, computer science instruction will be integrated into the core curriculum. The district aims to prepare students for advanced courses and a skilled workforce, emphasizing innovation and collaboration.
Coronado, California – The Coronado Unified School District (CUSD) is set to enhance educational opportunities by expanding its robotics programming and implementing a comprehensive computer science curriculum across all schools. This initiative aligns with the district’s strategic vision, known as the Portrait of a Graduate, aimed at fostering students who are technologically competent and adaptive.
Significant financial investment is required to develop these advanced educational programs. To that end, CUSD has forged crucial partnerships with the Coronado Schools Foundation (CSF) and the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA), which will play a vital role in supporting robust STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) initiatives at all four district schools.
For the first time, robotics clubs will be introduced at the elementary school level. These clubs will provide young students with extracurricular opportunities to engage in STEM activities beyond the classroom setting, nurturing a passion for technology and innovation early in their educational journeys. Coaches for these elementary robotics programs include JD Laaperi at Silver Strand Elementary and Courtney Sakai at Village Elementary, both dedicated to guiding students through hands-on learning experiences.
By the spring of 2026, Silver Strand and Village Elementary schools are expected to integrate computer science instruction into their core academic curriculum, further enriching the educational landscape. This initiative aims to boost student participation in advanced computer science courses at the high school level, contributing to a skilled workforce prepared to meet future challenges.
At Coronado Middle School, five competition teams will participate in the First Lego League series this academic year, while Coronado High School plans to offer expanded opportunities for students to engage in both competitive and exploratory robotics activities. The CHS robotics teams, Tiki Tech and CocoNuts & Bolts, have already demonstrated their prowess, achieving an undefeated record in recent competitions.
Roberta Lenert, who oversees K–12 robotics programs, emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment where students feel encouraged to innovate. Lenert co-coaches the CHS robotics teams alongside NASA engineer Pete Waydo, facilitating an effective learning experience for participants.
The Coronado Schools Foundation significantly contributes to the expansion of STEM programs by funding various activities, including Innovation Labs and classes in coding, computer science, game design, and environmental sciences. The financial support has been further bolstered by a $1.25 million CS+ grant from DoDEA, which aims to enhance computer science instruction from kindergarten through 12th grade.
New teams are being introduced this year at both Silver Strand and Village Elementary schools, allowing students to compete in robotics challenges that tackle real-world problems. The competitive landscape is designed to inspire creativity and collaboration among young learners. Joining in the robotics community, students express a strong sense of camaraderie within their teams, contributing to a collaborative and supportive atmosphere.
In addition to current achievements, the CUSD directors have committed to maintaining regular communication with parents regarding information about the programs and upcoming developments. Future competitions for CHS Robotics teams are on the horizon, presenting opportunities not only for students currently enrolled but also for middle school robotics participants whom they will mentor, fostering a knowledge-sharing culture within the community.
As CUSD continues to build a strong foundation for robotics and computer science education from elementary through high school, the district looks to cultivate a generation of innovative thinkers ready to navigate and shape the ever-evolving technological landscape.
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Additional Resources
- Coronado Times: CUSD Expands Robotics and Computer Science
- Wikipedia: Computer Science
- Coronado Eagle & Journal: Robotics Expansion
- Google Search: Robotics Education
- Los Angeles Times: STEM Education Insights
- Google Scholar: STEM Education
- Coronado Times: CHS Robotics Season Kick-Off
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Robotics
- Coronado Times: FTC Robotics Team Update
- Google News: Robotics in Education
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
