South Maui elementary students master AI and coding

T​he next generation of computer science innovators can be found hard at work at Kamaliʻi Elementary School in Kīhei.

In honor of global Computer Science Education Week (CSEdWeek), which runs Dec. 6 through 12, Kamaliʻi launched a campus wide series of coding and computer science activities for all students — reinforcing Hawaiʻi’s “Computer Science for All” vision and the school’s commitment to future-ready learning.

Lower-grade students kicked off the week with “Be the Robot,” an unplugged logic game that used coding blocks and floor mats to guide partners to a “treasure.” The activity strengthened sequencing, clear communication, and debugging skills.

Older students expanded on these concepts by identifying loops, correcting errors, and designing more complex challenges. The hands-on learning reinforced the importance of developing a growth mindset and showed students that mistakes and persistence are essential parts of the problem-solving process.

Students in grades 1–5 also joined the global “Hour of Code,” including the 2025 “Hour of AI.” Using Code.org activities such as “Music Lab” and “AI for Oceans,” they explored coding, AI concepts, and connections to Hawaiʻi’s unique island environment.

Beyond CSEdWeek, Kamaliʻi integrates computer science into every student’s education through bi-weekly computer classes and schoolwide coding experiences that make technology accessible, creative, and fun.

“We are committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to explore these future-ready skills,” said Gretchen Romerdahl, Kamaliʻi’s Technology Coordinator. “Starting with unplugged logic games removes the intimidation factor and shows students that they can be creators of technology, not just consumers.”

A statewide movement with local impact

Kamaliʻi’s efforts support the Hawaiʻi State Department of Education’s broader mission to expand high-quality computer science education for diverse learners statewide. In his opening message for the week, Superintendent Keith Hayashi emphasized the importance of preparing students to thrive in a rapidly changing digital world.

By engaging every class in coding and digital literacy, Kamaliʻi is helping students build essential skills while highlighting the value of strong public neighborhood schools in South Maui. By offering consistent, hands-on learning opportunities — regardless of background or access to devices at home — the school ensures all students gain confidence in today’s digital landscape.

Looking ahead: ‘Computer science is for everyone’

Kamaliʻi’s technology integration continues throughout the school year. Students progress from foundational digital skills to algorithms, block-based programming, and robotics, with more advanced learning planned for the spring semester.

“Computer science and coding will also be part of the hands-on activities our families can experience during our annual ‘ohana STEAM event in May,” Romerdahl added. “Our goal is for students and families to see that computer science is for everyone in our school ‘ohana.”