CSL Bootcamp at Albert Einstein High School | Kensington, MD

The Hispanic Heritage Foundation hosted a Code as a Second Language (CSL) Bootcamp sponsored by The Verizon Foundation at Albert Einstein High School in Kensington, MD.

Montgomery County Council Member Nancy Navarro, Superintendent of Montgomery County Public Schools, Dr. Jack R. Smith, and Supervisor of Montgomery County Student Foundations Office Steve Boden were in attendance.

CSL is a national initiative that introduces youth to computer programming and makes technical training careers accessible to students everywhere. The model fosters a network of Latino software engineers and Latino leaders. Within the CSL program, there are CSL Academies and Bootcamps that take place in different cities across the country.

“Today’s youth are this country’s workforce pipeline. In Montgomery County, we are making investments in the retention and creation of jobs through the adoption of Master and Sector Plans to position us as a global technology destination. I’m am thankful to the Hispanic Heritage Foundation, Verizon, and Montgomery County Public Schools for engaging in initiatives like Coding as a Second Language, which will train our students, especially those from communities that are underrepresented in STEM fields, to become part of the workforce pipeline,” said Council Member Nancy Navarro.

Students who attend our CSL Bootcamps develop an understanding of fundamental core programming concepts and syntax. In 2017 alone, CSL has launched Bootcamps and Academies in Oakland, San Jose, Portland, Osceola, Austin, among others! CSL Bootcamps are an opportunity where students learn a condensed introduction to computer science through a block based learning curriculum. At these technical training Bootcamps, students gain insight on what is necessary to build games and other gaming applications.

Mario Acosta-Velez, Verizon’s Director of State Government Affairs said, “Verizon is proud to partner with the Hispanic Heritage Foundation to implement the Code as a Second Language program in Montgomery, MD. Our goal is to help build the students’ coding skills and increase their interest and engagement in STEM-related fields and careers.   We want to help prepare our future leaders for the 21st century by fostering collaboration among students, enhance their problem-solving skills and provide a solid introduction to STEM.”

HHF is committed to providing students with resources to technology, and our vision is possible by allowing students to stay connected with year-round access to the LOFT Innovation leadership and workforce development programs including STEM Symposia, Innovation Fellowships, Youth Awards, mentoring and other work-based learning opportunities.

To learn how you can get involved with our CSL program as a student, partner or sponsor go here.