Free Mobile Computer Science Labs for All Public Schools in Maine

Dear Champions of Education,

Recognizing the importance of, and need for, computer science education as a critical part of every student’s educational experience to prepare them for post-secondary education and high demand jobs, the Maine Department of Education is continuing its efforts to expand access to, and participation in, computer science education. The DOE is providing every public school in Maine with a FREE mobile computer science lab! Each mobile lab will have equipment and supplies that educators can use to integrate the topic area into their classrooms. 

You will have three mobile lab options: Robotics and Programming, Augmented and Virtual Reality, and Coding and Hardware. Each option contains computer science equipment valued at $5,000 and is designed to be integrated into any content area and skill level. 

The Robotics and Programming lab engages students in the basics of robotics and programming by integrating Sphero technology in the classroom. Students can learn core computer science concepts, dig into computational thinking, and take things to the next level through programming. This mobile lab offers opportunities for “unplugged” learning. 

The Augment and Virtual Reality lab provides educators and students with a new level of digital creation and consumption with Merge EDU, CoSpaces, and Merge Cubes. Increase engagement through augmented reality learning experiences and enhance project-based learning by engaging students in 3D design. This mobile lab serves as a great entry point into computer science for all content areas. 

With the Coding and Hardware lab, students will learn about hardware and engage in coding through these Lego-based labs. Each lab is customized for elementary and secondary classrooms. Pair these Lego sets with Scratch and create an environment where students have agency and can see what they do on their computers come to life. This mobile lab offers opportunities for “unplugged” learning. 

We hope that every school will take advantage of this amazing opportunity and are happy to help you pick the right mobile lab for your school. In addition to supporting your selection process, we will be offering professional learning throughout the school year that is tailored for each computer science topic area and offers tools, strategies, and frameworks for integrating the chosen topic into any content area and at any grade. 

Applications will be sent to superintendents in the next couple of days. Principals should be in touch with your superintendent in order to select the best mobile lab for your school. 

For more information about each mobile lab option, check out the links below:

Option #1: Robotics and Programming 

Option #2: Augmented and Virtual Reality 

Option #3: Coding and Hardware  

The application to claim your school’s FREE mobile computer science lab, will be released in the next couple of days via email to superintendents. 

If you have questions or would like more information about Mobile Computer Science Labs or other Computer Science Initiatives, please reach out to the Maine Department of Education's Computer Science Specialist Emma-Marie Banks at Emma-marie.banks@maine.gov or 207-441-5757.