Opening New Doors for Young Minds through Greater Computer Literacy
Pros
Having worked in and around k-12 public school students for the last several years, I knew I stumbled upon something groundbreaking when I was first introduced to our Brook Knoll after-school Code Naturally students. As someone who started believing he'd never excel in mathematics around the age of our students, it's beyond inspiring seeing such young minds turn algebraic and college level programming concepts over in their heads while becoming thoroughly acquainted with concepts that meant little to me at their age, (aside from the monumental frustration they caused.) When Algebra and advanced mathematical concepts are offered to students as tools to realize their own visions, as opposed to arbitrary standards and tasks they must overcome — these young learners internalize concepts I vividly remember struggling with through middle school and beyond. It's incredible to witness how math really is the engine that drives everything we love: from games, to art, animation and design. I look forward to working with Code Naturally staff and students in the months and years to come.
Cons
Requires a self-driven work ethic and genuine interest in education which may not be feasible for everyone.
