iCodeSchool

Frequently Asked Questions
Program
What is the benefit of my child learning how to code?

The future workplace will have jobs that most of us haven’t even heard of today. As new technologies replace mundane jobs, future employees will venture into fields that will increasingly involve a high level of technological skill and knowledge. At iCode, our goal is to equip children with a strong foundation in computer science, while enriching their overall academic strength. During iCode’s program, kids learn skills in problem solving and creativity and gain experience in leadership, collaboration and problem solving.

Does iCode have classes for the novice, who has no coding or computer science experience?

Yes! There are no prerequisites for knowledge on our entry point belts. While our belts are intensive, they are designed to be taught to a particular age group.

My student is an advanced learning in coding. Can students skip around within the belt system?

There are always exceptions, however, we first need to assess the student individually and determine the best starting point within one of our entry points. A student may also sit in a class to help determine the best fit.

Program Structure
How is iCode’s program structured?

Students progress through a belt system, each defined by one of eight colors, and each under the umbrella of Beginner, Intermediate or Advanced levels. Each belt consists of 6-8 sprints. One sprint takes one month to complete.

How do I know the best starting point for my child?

Each student begins at the belt which is most appropriate for their age and skill level. Contact us to discuss the best starting point for your child.

Can a student take any subject?

No. The iCode curriculum has clearly aligned objectives that need to be mastered within each belt. The subject and content being taught are within the planned series of belts which build upon each other.

How are students recognized for work accomplished at iCode?

Upon completion of each belt, students receive a certificate of graduation, along with a new lanyard that represents the new belt color they will move to. The skills that students can list on their resumes are great for scholarship and career opportunities.

Is my student required to bring anything to class?

No. All the software and hardware will be provided in class. A USB Drive may be used to download the final project.

Will there be homework?

No. Our curriculum is designed to keep students challenged and engaged, however, the content of each class is designed to be completed within the allotted time.

Classes
When is iCode open?

Hours may vary for each iCode location. It is best to call a specific location. The front desk is usually open from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday, 12:00 p.m-5 p.m. on Friday, and 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturdays, when there are scheduled classes.

What is the weekly time commitment?

Classes are twice per week for one hour each. The time commitment is 2 hours per week and each sprint takes one month to complete. A belt takes 6-8 months to complete, depending on the number of sprints within a belt.

What happens if a student misses a class?

Lab hours are available to make up for missed classes. These may be scheduled in advance by contacting the front desk. Lab hours should be scheduled 24 hours in advance to ensure staffing. There are certain classes without lab hours that parents are informed at the time of registration, during those times classes cannot be made up.

What if a student misses more than three (3) classes?

The student should repeat the four-week sprint. Lab hours are a tool that aim to get a student to where they need to be; they are not a permanent substitute for a regularly scheduled class.

What happens when my child misses a class?

Parents can contact the front desk to schedule a lab hour. Labs are conducted on Saturdays with a lab mentor.

What happens when a student has to repeat a sprint or class time?

That is okay! It’s in the student’s best interest to get to the appropriate knowledge and skill level before promoting to the next level. This process, along with any exceptions to it, should be discussed with the Director to make sure of the best course of action.

How much does iCode cost?

Rates are set by individual centers. Please contact a nearby center for pricing information.

Can we access our child’s projects at home?

All our languages are open source, so you may access them, however, projects are designed to be developed in our facilities, for proper mentoring habits and to ensure that the child has mastered the skills covered in their belt.

Will we be able to see our child’s final project?

Parents can contact Administration to schedule a time to stop by and observe presentations.

Additional Activities
Are there events outside of classes with iCode?

iCode hold regular Friday Socials, which are an opportunity to bring in friends for a game night. On a quarterly basis, iCode holds graduation events, recognizing students who have completed belts and are ready to move on to the next.

iCode holds an annual hackathon event, where kids team up to compete with peers to solve challenges. Periodically, iCode teams up with Apple stores to offer fun gaming experiences.

Off Campus Program
What are Off-Campus Programs?

iCode offers an after-school immersion program, whereby school districts, private schools or clubs can benefit from iCode’s courses at their own facilities. Contact the center near you to find out about program availability.