A Year of Growth, Connection, and Possibility
Rooted in Community, Inspired by Earth Day
Across SkoCode classrooms this spring, Earth Day became a moment to pause, reflect, and create. Students explored how technology can support the land, their communities, and the future they are stepping into.
Through hands-on projects and thoughtful discussions, they connected computer science to real-world challenges and to the responsibility of caring for what surrounds them.
These moments reflect the heart of Indigitize’s mission: engaging and equipping youth, families, and educators in Indigenous communities with the literacy and tools to shape emerging technologies in service of their communities.
Growing Through Hands-On Learning and Exploration
This year, SkoCode educators brought computer science and AI learning to life in classrooms across multiple states. Students coded their first programs, explored artificial intelligence, built with micro:bit hardware, and engaged in hands-on, collaborative learning.
Across classrooms, students learned through storytelling, patterns, language, and design. In many spaces, culture and computer science were woven together, helping students see that technology is not separate from who they are, but something they can shape in ways that reflect their values, language, and community.
The Heart of the Work: SkoCode Educators
What makes this work powerful is the educators behind it. SkoCode educators showed up each day with creativity, care, and a deep commitment to their students and communities. They created classrooms where curiosity is welcomed, where students support one another, and where learning feels both accessible and meaningful.
“My favorite part would have to be seeing the students reach the point of understanding, that moment when it clicks. ”
Through Communities of Practice and ongoing professional learning, educators continued to grow their own skills while strengthening connections across the SkoCode network, ensuring they are equipped to guide students in understanding and shaping emerging technologies.
“Connecting more with students & teachers. Learning my strengths and weaknesses as a teacher and getting that experience to be a part of teacher developments and CoP projects. Learning about AI was a big lesson for everyone this year.”
Students as Creators and Problem Solvers
Across sites, we saw students take ownership of their learning. We saw collaboration, problem solving, and moments of pride when something finally worked.
In communities like Cuba, New Mexico, that impact is clearly visible. What began as an after-school program has grown into expanded opportunities during the school day, driven by strong student interest and parent requests for more access to computer science learning. This kind of growth reflects what is possible when students are engaged and communities see the value of this work.
We saw students begin to see themselves differently. As creators. As thinkers. As individuals who belong in computer science and have a role in shaping the future of technology. These moments are the true measure of impact.
“My favorite part about being a SkoCode Educator is seeing the kids get excited about coding and watching their confidence grow throughout the year.”
Expanding Opportunity
SkoCode continues to grow. Next year, we are excited to expand into new communities. We will be partnering with Turtle Mountain Community High School in North Dakota, in collaboration with Turtle Mountain Community College and the American Indian College Fund. We are also welcoming Maȟpíya Lúta in South Dakota along with Chinle Elementary in Arizona and Newcomb High School in New Mexico.
Each new partnership represents more youth and educators gaining access to the tools, knowledge, and support needed to engage with computer science and AI in ways that serve their communities.
Looking Ahead
As we grow, we are also continuing to seek individuals who are passionate about making a difference. SkoCode educators play a vital role in this mission, bringing technology, culture, and community together in meaningful waysIf you or someone in your community is interested in becoming a SkoCode educator, we invite you to learn more and apply through our website.
Closing the Year with Gratitude
As this year comes to a close, we reflect with immense gratitude for our supporters who make SkoCode possible:
New Schools Venture Fund
APS Arizona Public Service Foundation
The Encantado Foundation
Sandia National Labs
United Way of North Central New Mexico
Thank you to our caring and committed SkoCode educators who make this work possible, for our school partners who welcome and support the program, and most importantly, for our students.
Their curiosity, creativity, and resilience continue to inspire everything we do. This year was about more than learning computer science. It was about connection. It was about confidence. It was about possibility. It was about building the knowledge and tools for Indigenous youth to shape technology in service of their communities.
And we are just getting started.
