Introducing…The DRI Educator Academy!

The DRI Educator Academy increases access and equity for Nevada’s PreK – 8 students in Computer Science and STEM education (CS-STEM) by training teachers to integrate robots and drones into their classrooms and curriculum. Educator Academy professional development opportunities utilize unique and engaging lessons and concepts that are accessible for students of all abilities and levels of learning. Nevada Robotics curriculum used in the Academy is aligned with state learning standards. Academy trainings are offered at the DRI campus is Reno and Las Vegas, in schools around the state, including the towns of Mesquite, Ely, Spring Creek, Elko, and Gardnerville.

Be a part of the Nevada Robotics Educator Academy. Sign up for METRICS – Books and Bots this fall in Elko, NV: REGISTER NOW! 

METRICS

Mentoring Educators Teaching Robotics & Innovation in Computer Science

Mentoring Educators Teaching Robotics and Innovation in Computer Science (METRICS) is a PAID professional development program for PreK-5 educators to demonstrate how to use robots as learning tools to engage children early in CS and STEM. Teachers learn how to use robots to meet standards in all subjects, and how to develop their students’ skills such as computational thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and effective communication. METRICS teachers receive free lessons and receive access to a Robot Lending Library. 

Implementation Support

Nevada Robotics believes in sustainable professional development and educator support that continues once teachers leave or conclude their training sessions or classes. To provide this ongoing support, Nevada Robotics utilizes two strategies.

Once educators complete professional development, Nevada Robotics faculty and staff continue the relationship with teachers and provide on-site visits as needed to model lessons, to provide feedback and support, and to assess teacher and student needs. 

Robotics Education Assistants are former teachers with a passion for STEM education. They are available to provide technical support to classroom teachers or to Nevada’s educators who are working in after school or enrichment programs. Robotics Outreach Coaches (ROCs) are college students who participated in competitive robotics in high school or were trained by Nevada Robotics to also provide technical support for teachers during robotics lessons or events. 

Thanks to the Washoe K-12 Education Foundation,  Nevada Robotics piloted METRICS in two schools in the 2022-2023 school year. With additional funding from the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada and Nevada Governor’s Office of Science, Innovation and Technology, Nevada Robotics will work with eight new schools across Northern Nevada into the 2023-2024 school year.