Pine Tree Programming Returns for Third Year, Bringing Hands-On Computer Science to Maine Students

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is excited to announce the return of Pine Tree Programming, a statewide initiative that brings hands-on computer science learning to Maine students through engaging, after-school programming with micro:bits.

Now in its third year, Pine Tree Programming offers elementary and middle school students opportunities to explore coding, computational thinking, problem-solving, and physical computing in a fun and collaborative environment. Students work together to code, build, test ideas, and discover what they can create with technology.

Since its launch, Pine Tree Programming has continued to grow across the state from 44 clubs in its first year to 66 in its second, expanding computer science experiences in communities across Maine.

New This Year: Foundations and Explorations

For the 2026–2027 school year, Pine Tree Programming will offer two levels, creating opportunities for schools that are brand new to the program while giving returning participants new ways to continue building their skills.

Foundations (Level 1) is designed for schools and clubs that are new to Pine Tree Programming. Participating clubs will receive micro:bits and everything they need to complete six weeks of introductory programming activities. Foundations introduces students to coding and physical computing through approachable, hands-on challenges designed for beginners.

Explorations (Level 2) is designed for returning clubs, as well as coaches and students who already have experience using micro:bits. Explorations builds on those foundational skills with new challenges, additional hardware and accessories, and expanded opportunities for students to design, build, experiment, and create with physical computing.

Throughout the program, club coaches will receive resources and support from the Maine DOE, including weekly materials designed to make it easy to facilitate meaningful computer science experiences with students. No computer science teaching background is required to lead a Foundations club.

Learning Beyond the Club

While Pine Tree Programming is designed as an after-school program, the learning does not have to stop when the club meeting ends.

Participating schools receive equipment and resources that can also support computer science learning during the school day. Educators can continue using micro:bits and program materials to introduce coding and physical computing in classrooms, integrate technology into other content areas, or provide additional hands-on learning opportunities for students.

This allows Pine Tree Programming to serve as both an engaging after-school experience and a starting point for schools seeking to expand access to computer science and physical computing throughout their learning community.

Six Weeks of Creating, Coding, and Exploring

Pine Tree Programming clubs will complete six sessions during the January 25–March 15, 2027, program window, providing flexibility for school schedules and February vacation.

Activities are designed to encourage students to learn through experimentation and creation. Along the way, students develop computer science skills while also practicing collaboration, creativity, persistence, and problem-solving.

Registration

Registration for the 2026–2027 Pine Tree Programming program is open through November 20, 2026.

Maine elementary and middle schools interested in starting a new Pine Tree Programming club or continuing their experience through Explorations can learn more and register using the following links:

Through Pine Tree Programming, the Maine DOE continues to expand opportunities for Maine students to experience computer science in meaningful, engaging, and hands-on ways—both after school and throughout the school day.

For more information or questions, please reach out to Maine DOE Computer Science Specialist Allison Braley at Allison.Braley@maine.gov.

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