Perry Elementary was one of six schools in Iowa to receive a $50,000 grant from Governor Kim Reynolds and the Computer Science is Elementary project.

The program is aimed at transforming high-poverty elementary schools into models of innovative computer science instruction as part of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) curriculum. The ultimate goal is to create opportunities for students, as well as develop a statewide network of computer science expertise. The program came about through the partnership of the Governor’s STEM Advisory Council, the Iowa Department of Education, and businesses and industries around the state.

The grant process was very competitive, with 30 schools applying for the funds. The recipients were announced by Reynolds at the 2019 Future Ready Iowa STEM Summit. The initial $50,000 is to be used for planning purposes by the schools, and their computer programs are to be implemented no later than the 2020-21 school year through regular school funding. The other five schools to receive Computer Science is Elementary grants include: Denison Elementary; Lenihan Intermediate in Marshalltown; Cora B. Darling Elementary in Postville; East Union Elementary; and Richardson Elementary in Fort Madison.