At Christ Church Episcopal School, the TIDE classroom buzzes with excitement as middle schoolers brainstorm ideas, surrounded by shelves chock-full of materials. On the wall, bold letters spell out “TIDE,” which stands for “Technology, Innovation, Design, and Entrepreneurship.”
Since its launch in 2021, the TIDE curriculum has provided project-based learning for students in grades 6-8. It’s designed to help students develop critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, while using new technology.
In sixth grade, students participate in a “Shark Tank"-style class, while seventh graders experiment with AI, machine learning, and 3D design. By eighth grade, students tackle real-world projects. For example, in 2023, they worked with local business Sage Automotive Interiors to explore sustainable features for autonomous vehicles.
TIDE is quickly becoming a hub of innovation at CCES, and plans are underway to create a dedicated TIDE building as part of the school’s new Build for the Future campaign.
