The Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) strives to create a high-quality learning environment to equip every student and teacher with the resources they need. This is possible through ESSER III (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) funds, provided under the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act.

With ESSER III funding, the MDE can address needs in subjects such as computer science by providing equipment and training so that educators understand what they are teaching. Piper kits are a fantastic solution to fit this mold. This is because they not only align with ESSER III funding, but the MDE’s standards as well. Learn more about how Piper can fulfill the goals of the MDE with ESSER III funds.

Technology integration and computer science

PlayPiper kits support the integration of technology in classrooms, which is a key focus of ESSER III funds. This ensures that students have the skills needed to develop in the digital age including coding, engineering, and computational thinking.

Additionally, Mississippi has mandated that all students have access to computer science education. This includes teaching foundational concepts STEM across all grade levels. Piper kits strive to incorporate these concepts into its curriculum, ensuring students can thrive in a technology-driven world.

Engaging learning

PlayPiper products are not only educational, but bring fun to the classroom through game-based learning. For example, Piper’s catalog of activities easily aligns to the ESSER III emphasis on instructional approaches. This can be used to engage students who may have fallen behind or become disengaged during lessons.

Along with this, Piper products are designed for students in different grade levels. In this way, educators can increase student interest in computer science from a young age. This supports MDE’s goal of increasing digital literacy by ensuring that students of all ages have the skills necessary for success in a digital world.

Equity and inclusivity

One of the goals of ESSER III is to support students who have been impacted by the pandemic. This includes low-income students, students with disabilities, and English language learners. Piper’s accessible and user-friendly products can be a valuable tool in making STEM education more inclusive. Additionally, the MDE is also committed to equity in education, especially for those students who are underrepresented in STEM. Piper supports differentiated learning for wide array of learners and emphasizes that computer science instruction should be available to all.

Support for educators

When integrating new equipment into the classroom, it is important that educators have a grasp on what they are teaching. Piper offers resources, support, and professional development for educators to effectively integrate their products into their curriculum. This aligns with the ESSER III goal of supporting teachers to enhance learning outcomes. Also, the MDE emphasizes the use of professional development for educators to deliver high-quality computer science instruction that meets state standards.

Conclusion

By aligning with the Mississippi Department of Education’s mission as well as the ESSER III goals, Piper can help advance the state’s educational goals. In sum, Piper products provide the tools and resources necessary to empower students, support educators, and deliver high-quality computer science education across all grade levels.

For more tips, tricks, and tools for teaching in and out of the classroom, check out more content on the Teq Talk blog or our YouTube channels OTIS for educators and Tequipment.

We also offer virtual professional development, training, and support with OTIS for educators. Explore the technology and strategies that spark student success — no matter where teaching or learning are happening!

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