Hamilton, December 11, 2024

We are thrilled to announce that United Way Halton & Hamilton’s Seed funding has made it possible to develop and pilot an innovative teacher training program focused on enhancing teachers’ digital literacy and coding skills. This groundbreaking initiative is designed to empower 10 teachers from high-priority schools in Hamilton—serving low-income and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities—to confidently teach coding and deliver a culturally responsive, comprehensive curriculum aligned with Ontario’s updated math standards.

Thanks to United Way’s support, we will collaborate with local school boards, institutions, and industry experts to provide teachers with the training, tools, and resources they need to successfully integrate coding into their classrooms. By equipping teachers with these critical skills, this program aims to create a long-term impact, fostering a generation of confident educators and ensuring students develop the digital literacy and coding abilities essential for success in a tech-driven world.

Why Digital Literacy and Coding?

Digital literacy and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) skills are no longer optional—they are foundational for academic achievement and career readiness. Yet, systemic barriers persist, particularly for BIPOC and low-income students, who often lack access to quality technology resources and tailored educational programs.

Ontario’s revised math curriculum introduces digital literacy and coding as early as Grade 1. However, teachers note gaps in their understanding and confidence to teach coding in classrooms effectively. Currently, Mathstronauts offers various in-class coding programs, however, more effective and long-term solutions are needed to ensure teachers can confidently deliver the revised Ontario curriculum.  

View our in-class programs

Addressing Critical Gaps in Education

Despite the new curriculum, many Ontario teachers report lacking the confidence, skills, and tools to teach coding and digital literacy. For example, the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB) reported that only 42% of Grade 3 students and 35% of Grade 6 students achieved provincial standards in mathematics last year. Similarly, our organization’s data reveals that over 60% of Hamilton teachers express a need for enhanced professional development in digital literacy.

United Way Halton & Hamilton’s Seed funding is enabling us to tackle these challenges head-on. Through this program, we will provide teachers with the targeted tools, strategies, and confidence they need to create lasting educational impact.

Program Goals and Core Focus Areas

Our teacher training program will:

  • Eliminate Educational Inequities: Equip educators in high-priority schools with effective strategies for teaching coding and digital literacy.
  • Empower Educators: Offer hands-on, culturally responsive approaches that align with Ontario’s curriculum.
  • Foster Collaborative Networks: Leverage partnerships with school boards, institutions, and industry leaders to establish a strong support system.
  • Boost Teacher Confidence: Focus on practical skills that inspire engagement, resilience, and teamwork in the classroom.

Digital literacy isn’t just a career skill; it’s a life skill that fosters critical thinking, collaboration, and innovation. By empowering teachers with the resources they need, this United Way-supported program will spark positive change across classrooms, schools, and entire communities.

For more information and/or PR inquiries, please contact: Priska Handojo (p.handojo@mathstronauts.ca)