Check it out

Check the standings for Youth Coding League post-season action

Area schools placed well in playoffs.

Kids and gaming — nothing could be more natural. And as it is a native landscape for them, it’s no shock that students in 5th-8th grade are incredibly successful at learning and flourishing in programs that take them behind the scenes in the gaming and computing world – like Youth Coding League.

Set up in a traditional “season” with post-season competitions, Youth Coding League’s wrapping up for the 2023 academic year. And the post-season for YCL, supported by Missouri Tech Corporation, came to an end April 17, with some local area schools getting some major recognition for their innovative work.

  • Cedar Ridge Intermediate (Branson, Missouri) aka “The Meme Team.” The 5th-6th team placed 3rd for Technical Merit and 9th in the Community Favorite category.
  • Buchanan Intermediate (Branson, Missouri) aka “Team AMJ.” The 5th-6th team made it to the finals for Community Favorite and Technical Merit categories.
  • Pershing Middle School (Springfield, Missouri). The 5th-6th team made it to the finals for Technical Merit.
  • Pershing Middle School (Springfield, Missouri). The 7th-8th team made it to the finals for Community Favorite.

About Youth Coding League

Youth Coding League is an initiative to introduce key computer science principles to students in 5th-8th grades. Set up in project-based “seasons,” students can showcase new skills with teammates in postseason competition against teams from around the U.S. The program is built around the tenants of access, inclusion and self-efficacy – evening the playing ground so that all youth can be successful.

Want to add to the roster?

If you know of a teacher, librarian, school administrator, after-school program coordinator, engaged parent, or anyone who works with kids in the 5th-8th grade range that might be willing to lead, contact Stacy Lane. Schools may be anywhere in the service area, which reaches as far south as Pineville, as far east as Marionville, as far north as Nevada/El Dorado Springs, and as far west as Seneca.

Young coders have the best experience in the YCL when an engaged, excited coach is at the helm of their team, and those visionary folks are best found from personal recommendations.