Foundation grant brings Bee-Bot coding robots to elementary schools

The Medina City Schools Foundation has awarded a districtwide grant to all five elementary schools — Ella Canavan, Sidney Fenn, H.G. Blake, Ralph E. Waite and Eliza Northrop — bringing hands-on coding and robotics experiences to students in kindergarten through fifth grade.

The grant was inspired and initiated by Julia Goll, media specialist, whose presentation to the foundation highlighted how Bee-Bots can enhance learning across grade levels and subject areas.

Bee-Bots introduce young learners to coding through a button-programmed robot that teaches sequencing, directional language and problem-solving through hands-on play. The devices require no screens or apps and allow students to begin programming immediately.

Students use the bee-shaped robots to build coding and problem-solving skills while working collaboratively. Each Bee-Bot can store up to 200 commands, allowing students to create increasingly complex sequences. The robots can also be customized with recorded sounds, making them more accessible for learners with different needs.

The grant provides two sets of Bee-Bots for each school, with an additional set for Canavan, which already had one in use. It also includes 60 clear pocket mats for interchangeable lesson cards and six pen-holder attachments for Canavan’s existing set. The multiple sets allow for small group work so each student can actively participate.

Bee-Bots can be integrated across subjects including language arts, math, geography and science, as well as social-emotional learning. The tools align with Medina City Schools’ curriculum, strategic plan and Portrait of a Bee standards, supporting STEM education while fostering creativity and problem-solving.

Goll said the goal of the project is threefold: to enhance curriculum through hands-on technology, engage students in Portrait of a Bee standards and social-emotional skills, and support STEM learning through coding and sequencing.

Already, Goll and her team of paraprofessionals are using the robots to reinforce classroom lessons and develop new projects based on student interests. Activities include sight words, spelling, math problems, book reviews, angle mazes, land formations, weather concepts and more.

The Medina City Schools Foundation said it was pleased to support the project, which expands innovative learning opportunities and benefits students across the district.