At first glance, a small self-driving robot navigating a classroom floor may not seem like a big deal. But for students enrolled in Computer Science Essentials , the learning happening behind the scenes is anything but small. Thanks to the forward-thinking of one of our teachers and financial assistance from an OVCEF Education Grant, students are gaining hands-on experience with VEX robotics and vision sensor technology , a critical component of today’s computer science and engineering fields. This grant provides updated vision sensors that allow students to fully participate in a hands-on way. Real-World Coding, Real-Time Problem Solving One-third of the Computer Science Essentials course is dedicated to coding self-driving vehicles (SDVs). Students learn how to program these vehicles to move along specific paths, recognize colors and shapes, and make decisions such as turning, stopping, or continuing forward — all based on visual input from a vision sensor. During a recent class, students focused on the coding portion of this project , running their programs, watching how the vehicle responded, and making adjustments when the outcome wasn’t what they expected. This process of testing, analyzing results, and refining code mirrors how real engineers work in the field. Understanding How Machines “See” Through this project, students gain a deeper understanding of how machines interpret visual information. They learn how vision sensors detect colors and shapes and how that data can be used to trigger specific actions. These concepts are foundational in fields such as robotics, automation, artificial intelligence, and autonomous transportation. By working through these challenges, students aren’t just learning how to code — they’re learning how to think critically, troubleshoot problems, and apply logic in meaningful ways. Why This Grant Matters The vision sensors funded through this grant are essential to delivering the full curriculum. Without them, a significant portion of the course — including key concepts assessed on the end-of-course exam — would need to be removed. This grant ensures that students have access to the tools they need to succeed academically and explore future STEM pathways. Investing in the Future What starts as a small self-driving vehicle in a classroom can lead to careers in engineering, technology, and innovation. OVCEF Education Grants make it possible for students to engage in hands-on, future-focused learning experiences that prepare them for what comes next. This is what impact looks like — and it’s why we’re proud to support projects like this throughout the Oley Valley School District.

If you’ve ever watched a student discover something new through art, you know how powerful hands-on creativity can be. Recently, I had the chance to stop by the Middle School art room to see that magic in progress — and it was all centered around a new art kiln , made possible through an Education Grant from Oley Valley Community Education Foundation . The kiln was just about ready to be put to work, and the timing couldn’t have been better. Students were in the middle of glazing their clay pieces, many featuring imaginative animal designs. What looks like one color before firing will transform completely once it goes into the kiln — something that always amazes students. Learning how glazes oxidize and change during the firing process adds a whole new layer of science, patience, and anticipation to the art experience. This kiln upgrade means students can now take their projects all the way from raw clay to finished ceramic artwork, experiencing the entire creative process. It encourages experimentation, problem-solving, and pride in seeing a project through from start to finish — skills that extend far beyond the art room. We’re also incredibly grateful to the Middle School PTO , who helped complete the setup by purchasing the kiln plates. Those plates may seem like a small detail, but they’re an essential part of making the kiln function safely and smoothly. It’s a great example of how collaboration helps turn a good idea into a fully realized learning opportunity. At OVCEF, we're proud to support projects like this - grants that don't just add equipment, but truly expand what's possible for students. This new kiln is already sparking creativity, curiosity, and excitement, and we can't wait to see the finished pieces (and proud smiles) that come out of it.