Engineering and Computer Science

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Engineering & Computer Science

From Problem Finding to Problem Solving

In Lower School through Upper School, TVT students are given the expanse of time and support they need to develop innovative solutions to complex problems. Our engineering and computer science lessons, classes, and clubs are nearly 100% hands on, so students learn through teamwork, design, and project management, all of which build a critical thinking skillset that lasts for life.

ENGINEERING AND COMPUTER SCIENCE

classes begin in 3rd grade.

3 DEDICATED SPACES

for engineering and computer science.

AWARD-WINNING TEAMS

including VEX Robotics and STEM Racing.

FULLY EQUIPPED FAB LAB

with laser cutting, 3D printing, and CNC machining capabilities.

Parents love the real-life skill acquisition and overall level of our engineering and computer science program, as well as the program's focus on the opportunity to fail. We learn the most from our failures, and these classes allow students to fail initially in their designs before trying new ones, building their resilience and innovative thinking.

Faculty Member

Early Explorers

in Lower School

photography of Lower School students in Art & Engineering Center

Tasks to Talent

Our littlest engineers learn to combine creativity and analytical thinking as they’re given small tasks in programming and design. They develop persistence and confidence as they learn to collaborate and work through challenges together.

photography of Lower School students engaging in robotics

Edison Robots

In third grade, students learn how seemingly intelligent behavior in their Edison Robots can be produced with some introductory code and the use of the robot's sensors. These bots are Lego-compatible, allowing students to personalize and enhance their robot's capabilities.

Purposeful Projects

Every calibration, design, and engineered project connects to something else, like a language arts lesson, a Jewish holiday, or service to the community, helping students realize early that these skills are impactful and applicable to a bright future.

Designing & Building

in Middle School

photography of Middle School students in the makerspace

Opportunities to Thrive

All classes in the middle school program take place in the dedicated MS Makerspace where students are introduced to the engineering design process, 3D-modeling and fabrication technologies, programmable microcontrollers, and mechatronics, preparing them to make the most of all that is offered by the high school program.

photography of Middle School students working together on a project

Electives

The Middle School Engineering and Computer Science program offers students three highly preparatory electives to choose from: Introduction to Engineering and Programming; Engineering Design and Modeling; and Physical Computing and Robotics.

photography of Middle School VEX or STEM Racing team meeting/testing out a model

Competitive Teams

The VEX Robotics and STEM Racing teams bring together imagination, collaboration, and exciting competition. With the chance to compete globally, teams are constantly dreaming up and testing out new ideas.

Innovation in Action

in Upper School

photography of Upper School students collaborating on an engineering/computer science project

Project Management

Upper School students take advanced electives like Analog and Digital Electronics and compete on the elite VEX Robotics and STEM Racing teams, which help them develop essential project management skills: organization, scheduling, testing, documentation, team identity and branding, and more. These skills are applicable to both college and future careers.

Fab Lab

Upper School student engineers and computer scientists have a dedicated space in our Fabrication Lab, with access to equipment one would find at Boeing laboratories. In other words, our students are working with cutting-edge tools in top-notch facilities.

photography of Upper School students working at white board together

Preparation for What’s Next

Engineering and computer science classes and projects help students grow intellectually, socially, and emotionally. Building the patience and confidence required to inquire, innovate, and complete a complex task will power up their meaningful ambitions forever.

On the playground, students will discover simple machines in the contraptions and play equipment they’re using. It’s always a joy to see students realize how their learning applies to the real world.

Barbara Shaw, Lower School Engineering and Computer Science Faculty Member