North Gwinnett News

Students at Patrick Elementary School will participate in an Hour of Code event on December 5. This initiative is part of Gwinnett County Public Schools' AI-themed cluster, which began in 2022 with the opening of Seckinger High School. The school has partnered with Accenture to provide students with practical coding experience, supported by 60 volunteers from the company.

The Hour of Code is a global effort founded by Code.org in 2012. It aims to demystify coding and demonstrate that anyone can learn computer science basics, while also encouraging more students to consider careers in technology. Accenture has been involved with the Hour of Code since its beginning.

AI is rapidly changing how the world operates, making programs like those offered by GCPS essential for developing the future workforce. According to Accenture's latest Pulse of Change survey, "97% expect AI to be transformative for their organizations." Additionally, "65% are investing modestly in generative AI initiatives; almost all organizations (99%) plan to amplify their investments in AI more broadly in the next two years." However, "32% of companies surveyed have seen challenges around finding the talent they need to work with AI." This highlights the importance of GCPS's approach in preparing students for future careers and ensuring companies have access to necessary talent.

The event will take place at Patrick Elementary School located at 2707 Kilgore Road, Buford, Georgia. It will run from 8:15 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., involving K-5th grade students and teachers alongside Accenture volunteers.