Miami-Dade is the largest school district in Florida, representing a county with over 80% people of color, and the largest wealth gap in the country. The district needed a solution that provided accessible STEAM learning opportunities and career technical education pathways that appeal to students of all backgrounds, with specific emphasis on girls and underrepresented populations.

The district partnered with LEGO® Education and Microsoft Education, to engage more students in CTE programs with LEGO® Education SPIKE™ Prime. Its familiar and intuitive nature had students eager to learn new CS concepts and build the knowledge and skills needed to take the Introduction to Programming Using Python industry certification, a new offering in the district.

The program ensures that all students regardless of background have access to vital STEAM learning opportunities. It’s led to increased enrollment of middle school students in the Computer Science CTE pathway particularly with girls and underrepresented groups. Ultimately it gives them the preparation and access to take the Microsoft Technology Assistance industry certification in 8th Grade. The first Computer Science certification offered in the district.