On the Road with CodeHS: Indiana Edition

We’ve now crossed the state line into Indiana, and the excitement for computer science education hasn’t slowed down. Each school visit has been packed with engaging lessons, hands-on coding challenges, and plenty of enthusiasm from students eager to dive into the world of coding.

Stop 1: South Bend Career Academy (South Bend, IN)

The first stop in Indiana was South Bend Career Academy, where we visited two CS Principles classes. The students brought a lot of energy to the Python coding challenge, competing for CodeHS swag and embracing the chance to learn a new coding language. This school focuses on students needing extra behavioral support, so classroom management was a bit more of a challenge, but with the help of their teacher, Shari Bloom, we kept most students engaged. Shari mentioned that while she enjoys using the CodeHS platform, she wishes she had more time to be hands-on in teaching the topics herself. Overall, it was a rewarding visit with a great group of students.

Stop 2: Cardinal Ritter High School (Indianapolis, IN)

Next up was Cardinal Ritter High School, where we connected with Mitchell Neal and his class of nine students. The smaller class size allowed for more one-on-one interactions, and the students were able to dive deep into the coding challenges. Neal shared how much he appreciates the tools CodeHS provides to help guide lessons, and even noted that he’s learning alongside his students. The smaller setting made for a meaningful visit where we could really focus on each student’s progress.

Stop 3: Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School (Indianapolis, IN)

At Brebeuf Jesuit, we had the opportunity to meet with students at all different levels of coding experience. We started the day with 12 AP Computer Science Principles students, many of whom were interested in pursuing computer science in college. It was exciting to be a resource for them and help envision what they could achieve with a degree in CS. Later, we worked with a group of about 20 freshmen who were just starting their journey with Python. Their teacher, Susan Reagin, mentioned,

“Today was the most engaged I’ve seen them all year!”

It was a fun and energetic visit, especially with students so excited about earning some swag!

Stop 4: Danville High School (Danville, IN)

Our last Indiana stop was at Danville High School, where we met with two computer science classes led by Deborah Hunt. The students were eager to learn, and it was great to see them so engaged with the presentation. After class, many of them checked out the CodeHS van and took photos with it, marking a successful and fun visit!