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Welcome to TechStart!

TechStart is TAF's free, yearlong after-school program for students in kindergarten through 8th grade. The focus of TechStart is providing science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) enrichment to underserved children of color through project-based learning and advanced technology tools.

Learn moreSee examples of TechStart student projects

Learn moreLearn more about the TechStart Model

CalendarCheck the TechStart Calendar

 

2009-2010 Class Information

  • Application
  • Curriculum
  • Calendar
  • Locations
  • Parent Resources

New and returning TechStart students are welcome to apply.

1. Download an application

2. Choose a class and location

3. Submit Your Completed Application 1 of 5 Ways

Email (Scan and Attach): jenniferj@techaccess.org
Fax: (206) 725-9097
Attn: Jenn Johnson
Drop Off: TAF Offices
Mail: Technology Access Foundation
Attn: Jenn Johnson
4436 Rainier Ave S, Suite B
Seattle, WA 98118
Turn in at School School sites only

We have an exciting year planned for TechStart.

WINTER SESSION

Grades 1-2

      • Subject: Endangered Species
      • Technology: MS Word, PowerPoint and/or Web-based Slideshows, Digital Image Editing, & More

Grades 3-5 (4-6 in Highline School District)

      • Subject: Environmentalism
      • Technology: Alice (programming)
      • Due to the overwhelming success of last year's Robotics class in the Highline School District, we are offering Robotics to all TechStart students in this age group starting in the Spring session, rather than as a yearlong separate class.

Grades 6-8 (Rotating)

      • Subject: Electronics
      • Technology: Redmond Experimental Circuits

Grades 6-8 (Robotics)

      • Lego Mindstorms

       

SPRING SESSION

Grades 1-2

      • Subject: Zoos
      • Technology: MS Word, PowerPoint and/or Web-based Slideshows, Digital Image Editing, Zoo Tycoon & More

Grades 3-5 (4-6 in Highline School District)

      • Subject: Robotics
      • Technology: Lego Mindstorms

Grades 6-8 (Rotating)

      • Subject: Programming Video Games in XML
      • Technology: Emulators, Circuits, XML

Grades 6-8 (Robotics)

      • Lego Mindstorms

CalendarClick Here for the Complete Calendar on Google

Or check back for important dates like these:

 

February 15-18 Midwinter Break – No TechStart
March 4 WTIA Industry Achievement Awards
March 26 Last Day of Winter Session
March 29 - April 8 Spring Break - No TechStart
April 12 First Day of Spring Session
May 31 Memorial Day - No TechStart
June 17 Last Day of Spring TechStart

Download a list of classes & locations

Interactive map with directions coming soon.

Low-Cost Computers

InterConnection is a non-profit that offers low-cost desktop computers to low-income individuals in the Seattle area. Every computer is refurbished to high standards and comes bundled with everything needed to be up and running in no time, including a free computer set-up class. Visit interconnection.org for more details.

Internet Safety Information

NetSmartz411 is parents' and guardians' premier, online resource for answering questions about Internet safety, computers, and the Web. Sometimes adults feel like they don't know quite as much as their children do about the Internet. This site is your opportunity to learn more. Visit netsmartz411.org for more details.

The Source - Seattle Public Schools

An online resource for you to find complete information about your student. You can see state assessment scores, learning plans, and other great information. Visit source.seattleschools.org for more.

GO - Federal Way Public Schools

GO (formerly known as Grades Online) is Federal Way Public Schools' online system for parents and students to view information such as assignments, current grades, graduation progress, and more. Visit grades.fwps.org for more.

 

 


TechStart Quick Facts

  • 210 students enrolled in 12 locations for the 2009-2010 school year
  • Classes at 100% capacity in Winter 2010
  • In the Highline School District, 5th and 6th TechStart students score 10-15% higher than their peers on the Math WASL
  • 83% retention rate through the school year

For more information about TechStart contact the TechStart Program Manager:

Jenn Johnson
jenniferj@techaccess.org

(206) 390-4322

 

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