NBA and Cartoon Network Helped Kids Blend Creativity and Technology at All-Star Weekend

The National Basketball Association (NBA) teamed up with Cartoon Network to host a three-day “Code Your Story” mini camp for students interested in technology. This first ever collaboration between the two organizations was designed to reach underserved youth and help build their confidence in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math).

Twenty four third through fifth graders participated in the event, which culminated on Friday, February 17, with students showing off their creations at Sylvanie Williams College Prep.

Big Class, an organization dedicated to supporting students with creative writing, facilitated the event. The organization is launching soon in the 7th Ward and is modeled after the 826 National network of writing and tutoring centers.

The Big Class/826 National’s Code Your Story mini camp was held in conjunction with the NBA All-Star Weekend and inspired the kids to cultivate their storytelling abilities through creative coding.

Athletes and celebrities including Tim Frazier (New Orleans Pelicans), Ruth Riley (San Antonio Stars) and Greg Cipes (Teen Titans Go!), plus executives from Cartoon Network and the NBA, were there to celebrate with the kids.

Cartoon Network recently formed a STEAM Board of Advisors, who, in partnership with Google, Hour of Code, Black Girls Code, Scratch and DIY.org, and others, is working to engage youth with creativity and technology.

“The Network is championing STEAM education and has deepened its commitment to inspiring the next generation of creators and innovators, announcing a $30M investment in STEAM content in early 2016 and a strategic STEAM Board of Advisors this past fall,” revealed a representative for the organization.