In an era when my most advanced tech class involved mastering typing on those colorful backed Apple computers, I am stoked for today’s Fresno Unified School District students diving into a new realm of technological exploration thanks to Quiq Labs.

This local tech powerhouse recently partnered with the district to offer free summer camps for FUSD students that elevate learning to a whole new level.

Students at these camps are trading in the corded phones and boxy televisions of my day for cutting-edge activities like video editing, digital arts, robotics, virtual reality, and drone technology. It’s like my old typing class, but if it was not a typing class at all and we had technology from 20 years in the future.

Recognizing the summer slide in math skills affecting up to 78% of students, Quiq Labs ensures these young minds stay sharp and engaged. Their collaboration with Fresno Unified focuses on hands-on experiences in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics — sparking curiosity and fostering future innovators.

As a former FUSD student, I’m envious that I missed out on these experiences, but thrilled that our next generation can now gain these valuable skills in our tech-savvy world. Admittedly, I’m a bit clumsy — I’d probably trip over a cordless VR headset — but I’ll gladly stew in my jealousy from here.

Speaking with Quiq Labs

Robert Andrada, director of After School LIVE, emphasizes the camps’ personalized approach. Students can delve into robotics coding, explore sketching and spray painting, and unleash their creativity with green screen video projects inspired by popular games.

Related Story: Fresno Area Elementary School Teams With Quiq Labs for STEAM Exploration

Curlen Phipps, co-Founder and instructor at Quiq Labs, expressed his enthusiasm for interactive learning. He asks on the first day basic questions such as ‘What grade are you in?’ and “Tell me one thing about yourself?” These queries are designed to spark meaningful conversations and self-discovery among students. Phipps noted that “you’ll be shocked at how often kids can’t answer that one thing about yourself.” He says that it because the students are not normally given that space to answer that simple question in their daily lives.

While speaking with Phipps and Andrada, I realized the significance of their dedication to giving children the freedom to express themselves. It felt like I was reliving my childhood, discovering something novel, and feeling eager about the possibilities technology offers.

Transforming Learning Past Entertainment

Beyond entertainment, Quiq Labs aims to cultivate practical skills and ignite a passion for learning among participants. These camps are not just about fun — they’re about preparing students for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

For more details on how this partnership is transforming summer learning, contact Fresno Unified School District or Quiq Labs. The camps are free and open to all Fresno Unified students and parents can simply bring their children to sign up.

Following a successful session from July 8-12, additional camps are scheduled for July 15-19 and July 22-26.

See What Quiq Labs’ Camps are All About