Computer science program takes hold

Know a student who took a computer science class last year? There’s a good chance it was part of a citywide push implemented by the public schools chancellor.

According to the current chancellor, Richard Carranza, 2019 showed a 72 percent increase in students taking computer science classes since the Computer Science for All program was started in 2016 under Carmen Fariña.

Local students dominate dean’s list

The dean’s list has been posted for SUNY Purchase, the school located just south of the Connecticut border, and six of those top students earning a 3.5 GPA or better hail from this part of the Bronx.

Those who made the dean’s list include:

• Claire Giegerich, who is studying playwriting and screenwriting

• Hayley Gunning, a journalism major

• Leslie Ledesma, who is studying psychology

• Christina Rotdan, who studies playwriting and screenwriting

• Carolina Rosado, a graphic design major

• Mackenzie Schiller, a dance major

P.S. 81 families enjoy a day out

The parent association from P.S. 81 Robert J. Christen organized a day out for some students and their families Feb. 22.

Some 15 families headed out to Wave Hill together to take part in the weekend’s family art project, Swamp Spectacles and Marsh Marvels. Kids and their parents learned about the important role of wetland ecosystems.

Afterward, families strolled Wave Hill’s grounds together, enjoyed the sights and sounds of the public garden on a day out with friends and fellow students.