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New Enrichment Program Enables Denver Kids to Learn Technology SkillsSilicon STEM Academy (SSA) is a new enrichment program launching in Denver to teach kids aged 11-17 computer programming, robotics, digital media and other technology skills. SSA was created to help fill the STEM education gap left by most schools, while providing a fun, hands-on enrichment activity for tech kids. Silicon STEM Academy offers a range of classes that help kids learn different skills, including:
Weekend workshops include Minecraft Modding, Build Your Own Computer, and the popular Saturday Hack Club. In addition, SSA will also have a robust array of summer camps for kids as young as eight years old. "We started the SSA training center because we had a son who wanted to learn a programming language at the age of 12, but there were no options for him," said SSA co-founder John Scarborough. "That was 8 years ago, and even though STEM education has become a national initiative, there's still nothing like this available. There are enrichment programs for kids who are into sports, music, art and dance, but none for the 'tech kid.'" "In an age where gaming, texting and social media tend to isolate people, our hope is to bring 'tech kids' out of the solitude of their bedrooms into a collaborative, innovative environment," said Kelly Scarborough, SSA co-founder. "Our staff are committed to making our classes fun, ceative and engaging for our students, who will come away with real skills for life." SSA also sees the need for technology training in the workplace. In Colorado alone, there are almost 16,000 open computer-programming jobs, yet the state produced fewer than 500 computer science graduates last year. This is due in part to the fact that there are no statewide K-12 computer science requirements in our schools. To address these shortcomings, SSA will also offer classes for adults who want to reboot their careers. Silicon STEM Academy has hired a team of highly qualified technology instructors, ranging from experienced robotics teachers, to skilled computer programmers and digital media specialists. This blend of real-world expertise and certified teachers ensures that students receive training that prepares them for college entry or a technology career. To learn more about Silicon STEM Academy, parents and educators have several options.
"We are here to help prepare today's kids - the tech generation - for the future of computers, technology and innovation," continued John Scarborough. "Those who attend SSA will see that technology is cool, fun and creative. Oh, and by the way, Gates and Zuckerberg started learning to code when they were in middle school." About Silicon STEM Academy Silicon STEM Academy is an after-school technology enrichment program geared toward middle and high school students. Its tech programs and STEM courses include computer programming, robotics, electronics & circuitry, and digital media. Designed to meet the needs of tech kids where their schools often fall short-public, private or charter-it provides real-world technology skills in a fun, hands-on and collaborative workspace for students interested in technology. Headquartered in Denver, Colo., Silicon STEM Academy was co-founded by successful technology executives who saw a lack of a technology-skilled workforce. Course times and curriculum are available at www.siliconSTEMacademy.com.
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