2024 National Coding Symposium for Students

Get ready to embark on a journey where coding becomes not just a skill, but a gateway to boundless possibilities. The 2024 National Coding Symposium has returned for its fourth year, bringing even more opportunities to engage students and all levels of coders! In-person regional events known as a “Day of Code” are happening now. The symposium will conclude with a virtual event in December to align with Computer Science Education Week. The goal of the Coding Symposium is to build connections between students, teachers, and professionals in computer science. We are working with educational partners, including the California School for the Blind and the Center for Assistive Technology Training, to feature accessible coding activities that will hopefully inspire and empower you and can be replicated before, after, or during the symposium by accessing our resources page. 

What is the National Coding Symposium? 

The National Coding Symposium provides an overview of how coding is and can be made accessible to users who rely on screen access software. Designed to ignite the passion for coding among students from elementary to college levels, our symposium cultivates future leaders in programming and software development while also providing educators with invaluable ideas, resources, and support to effortlessly integrate coding concepts into their teaching curriculum. Join us for a dynamic blend of inspirational speakers, thought-provoking panel discussions, illuminating presentations, and hands-on demonstration sessions.  

What is the Day of Code? 

A Day of Code is an in-person regional event that gives students and teachers hands-on explorational learning opportunities. 

When: Five days throughout the fall from 9/1/24 – 12/7/24
Where: In-person locations around the U.S.
Who: Students who are blind or have low vision and various types of teachers (Gen Ed, ATS, TVIs, coding clubs, etc.) 

The focus of each Day of Code may have a unique aspect. Whether it’s exploring the intricacies of Monarch, delving into the capabilities of Quorum, navigating with screen readers, or building a strong foundation in coding, each Day of Code will be fun and educational.  

In November, thanks to a special grant from the PPG Foundation, Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children was able to host 106 middle and high school students from the school and outreach program for a Day of Code. West Texas Expanded Core Curriculum Day also hosted a Day of Code with more than 50 students from elementary to High School from all over West Texas. Maryland School for the Blind, California School for the Blind, and Tennessee School for the Blind will all be hosting their Days of Code in November. 

Symposium Schedule at a Glance 

December 10, 2024 (on Zoom) 

Hours: 12:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. EST 

Presentations: 

• Quorum Hour of Code Fun with Data Science presented by Andreas Stefik, Alex Hoffman, and Tim Kluthe 

• Scratch Tactile presented by Roger Olivella and Maria Seoane 

• Student Panel with two students from MSB   

• A Finch can Fly with Quorum and Python presented by Gina Fugate and Amanda Rodda 

Who Should Attend? 

Students in grades K-College will benefit from attending the symposium. Different programming codes and products will be discussed as well as career opportunities in programming and related careers. Teachers of students with visual impairments and assistive technology specialists who would like to integrate coding into their lesson plans and curricula will learn about activities, resources, tips, and pathways to overcoming inaccessible learning platforms and confusing coding lessons. ACVREP credits will be available for the virtual event in December. Parents will discover information about how to support and encourage a child with an interest in coding. 

Day of Code Recap 

This year’s theme is “One BYTE at a Time” all coding knowledge cannot be acquired in one Day. Take what you learned at the Day of Code and continue down the road. Register and Join us for a recap of the 5 Days of Code from around the country on January 22, 2025.   

Register for the National Coding Symposium. Thank you to the Fox Family Foundation and PPG for sponsoring this event.