Google joined Union City Mayor Vince Williams for a visit to C.H. Gullatt Elementary to deliver its CS First Roadshow, an interactive computer science education program that teaches fourth through eighth grade students computer coding basics.
 
Two Googlers delivered the hour-long presentation, which focuses on teaching students problem-solving and technical coding skills through a series of coding activities. The goal of the presentation is to encourage students to develop an interest in computer science education by participating in hands-on projects and learning about opportunities and exciting careers in STEM-related fields.
 
"Kids are exposed to technology at such an early age, but don’t necessarily get to learn about why computer science should be an important part of their lives - both now and in the future," said Alex Sanchez, a Google spokesperson. "We want the next generation of students to be able to create technology, not just consume it."
 
Union City Mayor Vince Williams kicked off the presentation by expressing the importance of learning about computer science and STEM subjects at an early, pivotal age. Mayor Williams also helped students build their own fun stories using Scratch, Google’s proprietary introductory coding tool.  
 
“STEM education is absolutely critical for our schools and our community,” Mayor Williams said.  “The City Council and I believe it is an important keystone in igniting a passion in our children that will ready them for the jobs of today and tomorrow.”
 
“We are grateful to Google for this opportunity and thankful for the organization’s unwavering commitment to partnering with our community and enhancing education for our students,” Williams said.