GOOD NEWS: Google CS program from S.C. marks milestone

A team of teaching fellows in South Carolina’s Lowcountry is celebrating a milestone in computer science education as the number of students using Google’s CS First curriculum surpassed the 25,000 mark.

Since the curriculum’s inception in 2013, schools across the country have created more than 1,600 unique clubs led by more than 1,700 community volunteers and teachers.

“Nationwide over the next few years, experts predict that there will be a million more computer science jobs than graduates to fill them,” said JamieSue Goodman, a  Manning, S.C. native who leads the CS First Project. “So, we created CS First to inspire students who might be interested in coding and programming as a career.”

Google’s teaching fellows and program managers developed a curriculum that uses video games, music, dancing and fashion to introduce students to basics of coding and interfacing with a computer on a programming level, according to a press release. It quickly took on a life of its own, officials said.

“We launched this as a two-year pilot program and it has become a self-sustaining and scalable educational tool that has a lot of shelf-life,” said Kate Berrio, CS First Program Manager. “We’re excited about the 25,000 number, but we work with more and more great school leaders each day.  As word of their success is shared around the world, we are seeing exponential growth.”

Also in good news:

Photo contest: Residents from Berkeley, Charleston, Colleton and Dorchester counties are invited to enter a professionally-judged photo competition with $3,500 in prizes. The contest, by Kolter Homes at The Ponds in conjunction with the Lowcountry Photography Club, runs from today (March 30) to June 14. Lifestyle and nature photographs are sought. To learn guidelines and submission information, click here.

Award winner: Congratulations to local businessman Charles Fox of Fox Music House for being named this year’s winner of the Summey Barkley Rucker Medallion for his contributions to the community and arts education. The award was created in 2011 by South of Broadway Theatre Company (SOBTC) in recognition of the important work of mentoring young artists. The medallion is named for North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey, Charleston Regional Alliance for the Arts Founding Chair Nella G. Barkley and two-time Grammy Award Winning entertainer and Grand Ole Opry Member Darius Rucker. The award will be presented April 29 at a gala. More info.

New Citadel official: A hearty welcome to Connie Ledoux Book, who has been named new provost and dean of The Citadel. It’s the number two leadership position at the college. Currently a leader at Elon University, she will begin leading academics at the military college in July.

“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Connie Book as our new provost and dean of The Citadel,” said Citadel President Lt. Gen. John W. Rosa.  “She not only has the leadership and academic experience we sought, but she clearly embraces our mission. She is the perfect fit during this exciting time at The Citadel.”

Eat Local Month: April is Lowcountry Local First’s fourth annual Eat Local Month to highlight the positive community benefits of supporting Lowcountry farms and food businesses. Throughout the month, the organization will provide educational opportunities and events to people to connect with farmers, restaurants, businesses and more. Learn more online.

Purple pots: Le Creuset, which has its North American marketing office and culinary center in Charleston on the Ashley River, has a new color of its signature enameled cast iron cookware: Amethyst, which the company describes as a “sophisticated, rich purple.” The new pots will be sold at company stores and online starting in mid-April.