*The East Williston Union Free School District students showcased their talent and enthusiasm for coding, problem-solving, and collaboration at the Hackathon Bootcamp.*

By Williston Post Staff

The East Williston Union Free School District recently celebrated the spirit of innovation and teamwork during its Hackathon Bootcamp, an engaging event designed to prepare students for the upcoming KidOYO Hackathon in the spring. Students from fourth, fifth, and sixth grades showcased their talent and enthusiasm for coding, problem-solving, and collaboration in a dynamic and inspiring environment.

Facilitated by teachers Michael Mazur and Brendan O'Braitis and Director of Technology and Innovation Stacey Weinberg, the bootcamp offered hands-on activities to enhance critical thinking, creativity, and technical skills. Students worked with KidOYO’s powerful coding tools, Sprite and Hatch, tackling challenges that refined their coding abilities while encouraging innovative solutions.

The event was not just about technology but also about fostering collaboration and mentorship. Students from The Wheatley School’s computer science program joined the bootcamp as mentors, sharing their advanced coding projects and offering guidance to younger participants. This cross-grade collaboration inspired the younger students, providing a glimpse into the exciting possibilities within the field of technology and reinforcing the importance of mentorship in building a supportive learning community.

“I am incredibly proud and impressed by the students who participated in our Hackathon Bootcamp,” said teacher Brendan O'Braitis. “From the fourth graders to our Wheatley seniors, they all demonstrated their creativity, problem-solving skills, and passion for technology. The hard work and determination displayed by all students showcased the bright future of innovation.”

Beyond coding, the bootcamp also featured offline engineering challenges, adding another layer of excitement. These activities emphasized teamwork and communication, essential skills for both coding competitions and real-world problem-solving.

By the end of the event, students left feeling empowered, equipped with the confidence, skills, and enthusiasm needed to excel in the upcoming KidOYO Hackathon. The Hackathon Bootcamp also strengthened connections across grade levels, fostering a shared enthusiasm for computer science and showcasing the district’s commitment to nurturing a tech-savvy, innovative community.

The East Williston Union Free School District continues to inspire future innovators, preparing students to thrive in a technology-driven world while promoting collaboration and creativity.

Photo courtesy of the East Williston Union Free School District.