South Whittier School District is now partnering with East Los Angeles College to offer free robotics classes to it’s 7th and 8th grade students.
This is a new program that offers Graves Middle School students dual enrollment giving them the opportunity to obtain college credits while still attending middle school. The credits can then be transferred to many other colleges and universities.
“This is a great opportunity for our students to be dually enrolled college students and get college credit and a certificate for these courses,” Graves principal Dr. Fraijo stated.
The course that students will be taking is a three unit introductory robotics course. It’s emphasis is hands-on experience to build a basic functional robot. The course description states that students will have the opportunity to learn about electric motors, servos, switches, sensors, actuators, and their application in the robot. They will also learn Basic Stamp computer programming and its integration into a working robot unit. The course also teaches mechanical assembly, connecting electronic components, wiring and soldering, and testing.
Dr. Fraijo shared his excitement about the program saying, “Our kids have enjoyed this class and they have enjoyed programming the robots. Our kids have never had an opportunity to participate in this type of program. It is awesome.”
Students enrolled will take classes on Tuesdays and Thursday from 3:00 PM to 5:50 PM.