07/16/2026
🎉 Hands‑On Learning in Halifax County!
Kindergarten students at Clays Mill Elementary School explored foundational coding concepts thanks to a mini‑grant funded by the Halifax County Public Schools Education Foundation.
Through an interactive “Simon Says” activity, students became robots by practicing step‑by‑step directions, sequencing, and discovering how computer “bugs” can interrupt a program. They also learned how debugging helps fix mistakes and improve their code.
Students then applied their new skills by programming Coding Critters, testing commands, revising instructions, and strengthening their problem‑solving abilities. They learned that mistakes aren’t setbacks, they’re part of the learning process.
This engaging lesson was facilitated by Khaela Powell, ITRT, whose creativity and expertise helped bring coding to life for our youngest learners.
💙 Why Mini‑Grants Matter
Mini‑grants make innovative, hands‑on learning experiences like this possible. They empower teachers to bring new ideas into the classroom and give students opportunities to explore, create, and grow.
As we celebrate this successful project, we’re preparing for next year’s mini‑grant cycle, and we need your help to make even more classroom dreams a reality.
🌟 Your support directly fuels PK–12 innovation across Halifax County.
Every donation, large or small, helps us fund projects that spark curiosity, strengthen skills, and expand opportunities for students.
👉 Make a gift today to support next year’s mini‑grants: www.hcpsef.org/contact
Together, we can continue building a brighter future for Halifax County Public Schools