At the Nov. 6 Board of Education meeting, students and teachers in Glen Cove were cast as architects of a digital future, with technology taking center stage in the classroom. Anna Policastro, the District Coordinator of Instructional Technology, unveiled how the district is embracing New York State’s Computer Science and Digital Fluency Standards to equip students with the skills, creativity, and ethical mindset needed to navigate an increasingly tech-driven world.
Policastro emphasized the broad impact of these standards, noting that they prepare students for careers that may not even exist yet.
“The vision for these standards is to make sure that every student has the skills, knowledge, and mindset they need to thrive in a digital world,” she explained. “We’re not just teaching students how to use technology; we’re preparing them to shape it. These standards ensure that our students won’t just be scrolling through life but will be equipped to control the technology that shapes it.”
The standards address a growing demand for technology-related skills across industries. According to Policastro, 67 percent of new jobs in STEM fields are in computing, and 58 percent of all tech jobs are outside the traditional technology sector. Yet, only 6 percent of high school students currently enroll in computer science courses.
“From healthcare to finance, agriculture to the arts, nearly every industry now relies on technology,” she said. “By equipping students with a foundation in computational thinking, coding, data analysis, and digital problem-solving, these standards ensure they enter the workforce with relevant skills.”
The implementation of these standards began in 2020 and has progressed through four phases, culminating in full integration this year. Students across all grade levels are now learning to solve problems, understand systems, and use technology responsibly. Younger students practice identifying patterns and using block-based coding platforms like Code Monkey, while middle and high school students engage with more advanced tools such as Python and 3D prototyping software like Tinkercad.
Policastro described the hands-on nature of the curriculum, sharing examples like elementary students programming robots to follow specific commands or designing solutions to real-world problems through prototyping.
“Our students are creating prototypes for 3D-printed objects, refining their designs as they go,” she said. “It’s all about using the engineering design process to solve everyday challenges,”
The district’s commitment to professional development for teachers has been key to the program’s success. Teachers attend technology summits and receive tailored training on integrating coding and robotics tools into their lessons. Policastro credited district administration for its unwavering support.
“This creates a culture that is empowering for our teachers and our students. It’s about enriching, modifying, and redefining technology integration into their practice.”
Maria Rianna, the superintendent of schools, reflected on how far technology in education has come.
“I thought about years ago when I was in another district as an assistant superintendent, and we were debating whether K and first-grade students could even work with a computer,” Rianna said after the presentation. “Now, I’ve seen them coding and beginning their own adventures. It used to be a resource, something we could go to. Now, it really is what we use every day.”
The district’s efforts align with a broader vision of fostering not just digital literacy but also creativity and innovation. Policastro noted that while students are mastering technical skills, they’re also learning to think critically about the ethical implications of technology. Middle and high school students discuss topics such as artificial intelligence and data privacy, preparing them to navigate complex digital landscapes responsibly.
“I look forward to seeing our students participate in coursework that allows for micro-credentials and continuing education through technology,” Rianna said. “It’s incredible to think that they might be explaining the latest technology to us one day.”
