The CodeHS road trip continues, bringing hands-on coding activities and computer science excitement to schools across the country. This leg of the journey featured stops in Alabama, Tennessee, and Mississippi, where students and teachers shared their experiences, challenges, and enthusiasm for coding. From connecting over Super Smash Bros to discussing the need for more accessible computer science education, each visit offered unique insights into the impact of computer science in classrooms.
Stop 1: Tuscaloosa Academy (Tuscaloosa, AL)
The first stop in Alabama for the CodeHS road trip was Tuscaloosa Academy, a pre-K-12 private, non-religious school known for its diverse student body. With students representing 13 different countries, the school provided a vibrant and engaging atmosphere. The students were respectful and asked thoughtful questions throughout the visit. Tammi Scheiring, a teacher at the school, shared her experience using CodeHS in previous years. Between classes, students and staff enjoyed connecting over a quick game of Super Smash Bros., which added a fun and lighthearted moment to the day.
Stop 2: Bessemer Center High School (Bessemer, AL)
The next stop in Alabama was Bessemer Center High School, a large public school in Bessemer. During the visit, two classes were combined for a presentation, led by teacher Stephanie Triplett. While the school was not currently using CodeHS, Stephanie shared how she uses custom materials to teach computer science. The school’s internet was down for the day, preventing the planned coding activity. Despite this, the presentation was a success, with students learning more about CodeHS. The school community also enjoyed taking pictures with the iconic pink van, marking a memorable conclusion to the Alabama visits.
Stop 3: Liberty Creek High School (Nashville, TN)
We made our way over to Liberty Creek High School in Nashville, Tennessee. Diana Brackman, a teacher at the school, expressed her excitement about being included in the road trip. Having previously used CodeHS Pro at a private school, she noted the challenges of transitioning to a free platform at her current public school. The students at Liberty Creek participated in Turtle Graphics activities and offered creative feedback on ways to enhance Karel challenges. Suggestions included adding items for Karel to pick up, introducing clothing options, or even creating a rival character named “Sammy the Cat.” These ideas showcased the students’ enthusiasm and creativity.
Stop 4: Innovation Academy in Robertson County (Springfield, TN)
Our last stop in Tennessee was the Innovation Academy in Robertson County, a 6-12 magnet school in Springfield, Tennessee. Despite a two-hour school delay due to cold weather, the visit was a highlight of the road trip. Eric Weisner’s class of Python students impressed us with their engagement and interest in computer science. Students praised the pacing of CodeHS lessons, noting how new material builds on previously learned concepts. They also proposed the idea of a CodeHS-hosted hackathon or competition, which they felt would be an exciting opportunity to showcase their skills.
Stop 5: Oxford High School (Oxford, MS)
We headed to Oxford High School in Mississippi, where teacher, Misty Whitehead, welcomed the pink van to her school, making Oxford High the first in Mississippi to participate in the road trip. Misty’s enthusiasm extended to her classes, which included a Spanish class she taught. She highlighted her appreciation for CodeHS courses being available in Spanish, ensuring every student has an equal opportunity to learn computer science. During the visit, Misty conducted an interview with us and shared her positive experiences using CodeHS. The day included an engaging session on utilizing AI. Students built websites with tools like Claude and ChatGPT, which sparked excitement and creativity among the classes.
Each school visit brought unique insights and excitement, from hands-on coding activities to valuable feedback from educators and students alike. The CodeHS road trip continues to highlight the impact of computer science education and the enthusiasm of teachers and students across the country. Stay tuned for more updates as the journey moves forward!
___
Want CodeHS to visit your school?
We're well into the road trip and excited to visit even more schools along the way! You can still request a visit for the CodeHS team to make a stop at your school on the road trip. If you’re interested, request a visit here codehs.com/roadtrip.
Follow us on TikTok and Instagram to follow along on this cross-country adventure throughout the school year!
