DERRY, NH — December 17, 2024 — The American Consortium for Equity in Education today announced that CoderZ was named a winner of the 2024 Excellence in Equity – Industry Impact Award in the Math, Science, or STEM solution category. The Industry Impact Awards honor the PreK-20 companies, organizations, leaders, and products whose proven results have advanced educational equity and access for learners. Overall, there were 44 winners named in 29 unique categories.

“Congratulations to all the deserving winners of the Industry Impact Awards, and a heartfelt thank you for the work you do to support educators and students,” said Maia Appleby, communications and editorial director for the American Consortium for Equity in Education. “It’s a joy to announce these winners, highlight their meaningful contributions to education, and it will be just as exciting to see what they do next.”

Nominees for the Industry Impact Awards were asked to provide information about their relevant work supporting equity and access, evidence of their impact, testimonials, and supporting materials. This was the third year of the Excellence in Equity Awards and the first year of the dedicated Industry Impact Awards program.

“We are incredibly honored to receive the 2024 Excellence in Equity – Industry Impact Award in the Math, Science, or STEM solution category from the American Consortium for Equity in Education. This recognition is a testament to our commitment to providing equitable access to computer science education for all students.” said Tony Oran, CEO of CoderZ. “At CoderZ, we believe that every student, regardless of their background, deserves the opportunity to explore and excel in STEM fields. We are dedicated to supporting educators with innovative tools and resources that empower the next generation of thinkers and problem solvers. Thank you to all the educators who inspire us every day with their dedication and passion.”

Every nominee, finalist, and winner of the Excellence in Equity Awards has made invaluable contributions to improving opportunity and outcomes for students. Learn more about the winners at https://www.ace-ed.org/awards.

About Intelitek

Intelitek is at the forefront of training for STEM and CTE. With a focus on Kindergarten to Career the company offers CoderZ, a fun and equitable gamified and game-based learning experience to Industry 4.0 education for CTE. For four decades, the company’s innovative learning solutions have provided learners across the globe with the competencies needed for in-demand careers in production. Driven by its pedagogic commitment to students’ career readiness and lifelong learning skills, the company develops state-of-the-art tools and technologies for engineering, manufacturing, automation, and robotics technologies. These technologies, along with Intelitek’s programs, empower instructors and inspire students to pursue careers in cutting-edge businesses. For more information go to: www.intelitek.com.

About the Excellence in Equity Awards

The annual Excellence in Equity Awards program recognizes the companies, nonprofits, leaders, and educators whose work contributes to the critical goal of ensuring access and equity for every learner. Learn more at www.ace-ed.org/awards.

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“We’re delighted to have the opportunity to work with Dallas ISD in supporting their expanding STEM certification programs,” said Tony Oran, CEO of Intelitek. “For the past year, our CoderZ team has been working to build new courses that are specifically aligned to the new TEKS for Technology Applications, so we’re now well prepared to help Texas educators meet those standards.”

The CoderZ platform provides a research-based, pedagogically-advanced approach to teaching STEM and computer science for grades 3-12. The program develops core knowledge in coding, physics, geometry, literacy, and algebra as well as critical life skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and grit. Any teacher, even those without subject area expertise, can integrate CoderZ’s scaffolded and standards-aligned curriculum into instruction.

Ongoing support and professional development aligned to the standards of the CSTA and NGSS make it even easier for teachers to successfully cover CoderZ’s learning material. Educators are guided through the concepts of teaching computer science and computational thinking as they build their confidence in working with the CoderZ platform.

RoboX is an advanced and intuitive platform for programming and operating robotic workcells. Aligned with Intelitek’s Industrial Robotics certifications, the platform features realistic robot kinematics for a thorough learning experience and allows students to explore career options such as engineering, robotic operations, or robotic programming.

The RoboX curriculum delivers fun and interactive game-based learning that can be student-paced, or instructor led. The online application is scalable and scaffolded so that it can accommodate any number of students at all levels of experience. The RoboX web-based environment offers students the flexibility to work in the classroom, in the lab, or from home. Educators can opt to pair the solution with physical robots or use it alone.

Since not all educators who teach industrial robotics are robotics experts, RoboX helps build their knowledge and competencies through professional development resources and robust teacher support such as instructional videos. The platform helps educators monitor student progress through quizzes, grading, assessment tools, and detailed reports at the district, school, instructor, and student levels. The platform also facilitates comprehensive class management, including integration with rostering.

“CoderZ and RoboX are both complete solutions, containing curriculum, engaging virtual applications and teacher resources,” said Oran. “Together they provide a complete and cohesive learning pathway that prepares students in robotics, engineering, and industry and enables them to be informed citizens in a technology-driven world.”

Dallas ISD administrators and educators can learn more by visiting: https://biz.gocoderz.com/coderzfortexas.

About Intelitek

Intelitek is at the forefront of training for STEM and CTE. With a focus on Kindergarten to Career the company offers CoderZ, a fun and equitable gamified and game-based learning experience to Industry 4.0 education for CTE. For four decades, the company’s innovative learning solutions have provided learners across the globe with the competencies needed for in-demand careers in production. Driven by its pedagogic commitment to students’ career readiness and lifelong learning skills, the company develops state-of-the-art tools and technologies for engineering, manufacturing, automation, and robotics technologies. These technologies, along with Intelitek’s programs, empower instructors and inspire students to pursue careers in cutting-edge businesses. For more information go to: www.intelitek.com

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DERRY, N.H. –Sept. x, 2024 – CoderZ, the gamified coding platform and curriculum that introduces students to technology, computer science and robotics, has been named the Best CTE Champions: IT & Coding: Real-World Learning in the Educators Pick Best of STEM® 2024 Awards, the only awards program judged by STEM educators. Operated in partnership with the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT) and MCH Strategic Data, the Best of STEM Awards spotlights innovative products, technologies, and services that are changing the world of STEM education.

CoderZ was chosen via a two-part judging process. First, a panel of educator judges evaluated all entries and selected finalists. Next, hundreds of thousands of STEM educators picked the winners via survey.

The educator judge for the Best CTE Champions: IT & Coding: Real-World Learning Award stated, “CoderZ provides a well-rounded program for students in grades K through 12 to build skills in essential areas.”

The judge further praised the solution, saying “The product is very visually engaging for students and teachers. The activities engage students in real-world learning experiences, helping them connect more authentically with the content area and develop these essential skills.”

“To have the people who are directly involved in STEM instruction declare CoderZ a winning STEM solution is especially meaningful to us,” said CoderZ CEO Tony Oran. “It affirms that the application and curriculum are indeed a fun and engaging way to introduce students to computer science, robotics and coding, ground them in STEM principles, and open a pathway to high-demand career opportunities.”

CoderZ provides a research-based, pedagogically-advanced approach to teaching STEM and computer science for grades 3-12. In addition to coding, the program develops core knowledge in physics, geometry, literacy, and algebra as well as critical life skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and grit. Any teacher, even those without subject area expertise, can integrate the scaffolded and standards-aligned curriculum into core, supplementary, or extra-curricular instruction. A rich offering of teaching and professional development resources makes it even easier for teachers to successfully cover the learning material.

That educator support earned special notice from the educator judge who said, “For educators worried about getting started or finding the time, CoderZ provides all of the resources that support educators as they bring this into the classroom.”

For more information about the Best in STEM awards program and to find the complete list of winners visit https://www.bestofstemawards.com

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About Intelitek

Intelitek is at the forefront of training for STEM and CTE. With a focus on Kindergarten to Career the company offers CoderZ, a fun and equitable gamified and game-based learning experience to Industry 4.0 education for CTE. For four decades, the company’s innovative learning solutions have provided learners across the globe with the competencies needed for in-demand careers in production. Driven by its pedagogic commitment to students’ career readiness and lifelong learning skills, the company develops state-of-the-art tools and technologies for engineering, manufacturing, automation, and robotics technologies. These technologies, along with Intelitek’s programs, empower instructors and inspire students to pursue careers in cutting-edge businesses. For more information go to: www.intelitek.com.

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DERRY, N.H. – (Aug. 20, 2024) – Educators are rising to the challenge of delivering STEM education, but it is still a challenge to migrate students on to career and technical education (CTE) programs leading to industry careers. Intelitek, a worldwide CTE leader, is introducing a new, cost-effective way for high schools and postsecondary CTE programs to provide practical industrial robotics learning experiences. Launching on September 1, schools and programs can subscribe to the new RoboX curriculum and gamified 3D simulation platform for virtual industrial robotics education.

RoboX is an advanced and intuitive platform for programming and operating robotic workcells. Aligned with Intelitek’s Industrial Robotics certifications, the platform allows students to explore career options such as engineering, industrial maintenance, robotic operations, or robotic programming. The RoboX simulation features realistic robot kinematics for a thorough learning experience.

The curriculum delivers fun and interactive game-based learning that can be student-paced, or instructor led. The online application is scalable and scaffolded so that it can accommodate any number of students at all levels of experience. RoboX web-based environment offers students the flexibility to work in the classroom, in the lab, or from home. Educators can opt to pair the solution with physical robots or use it alone.

“No other educational company offers a virtual CTE solution like RoboX,” said Tony Oran, CEO of Intelitek. “And the other robot training simulations on the market don’t come with a fully-integrated curriculum. With the combination of those two components, schools that don’t have the resources for a robot now have a state-of-the-art virtual solution for teaching industrial robotics. This is an excellent option for all schools, especially schools with resource limitations, schools specializing in remote instruction, and schools that use our CoderZ program and want to take their students further.”

Intelitek is the creator of CoderZ, a market-leading computer science education platform used worldwide in elementary and middle school computer science programs. “RoboX is the natural next step after CoderZ’s programming and robotics,” said Oran. “It’s the bridge that enables students to make the transition from computer science learning to practical preparation for careers in industry as well as for studying engineering disciplines in postsecondary programs.”

Since not all educators who teach industrial robotics are robotics experts, RoboX helps build their knowledge and competencies through professional development resources and robust teacher support such as instructional videos. The platform helps educators monitor student progress through quizzes, grading, assessment tools, and detailed reports at the district, school, instructor, and student levels. The platform also facilitates comprehensive class management, including integration with rostering.

RoboX is IT friendly, with no installation required. The solution is also compliant with COPPA, FERPA privacy, and IT requirements.

“We’ve rolled out a fundamental robotics curriculum, but that’s just the beginning,” said Oran. “We’re planning additional curricula, platform features, integrations with hardware and real robots, and certifications. RoboX has opened a wealth of possibilities for robotics education, and we’re very eager to bring those possibilities to educators and their students.”

Schools can opt for classroom-level or schoolwide RoboX subscriptions. For more information, go to https://intelitek.com/robox.

About Intelitek & CoderZ

Intelitek is at the forefront of training for STEM and CTE. With a focus on Kindergarten to Career the company offers CoderZ, a fun and equitable gamified and game-based learning experience to Industry 4.0 education for CTE. For four decades, the company’s innovative learning solutions have provided learners across the globe with the competencies needed for in-demand careers in production. Driven by its pedagogic commitment to students’ career readiness and lifelong learning skills, the company develops state-of-the-art tools and technologies for engineering, manufacturing, automation, and robotics technologies. These technologies, along with Intelitek’s programs, empower instructors and inspire students to pursue careers in cutting-edge businesses. For more information go to: www.intelitek.com

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DERRY, N.H. – July 17, 2024 – When the revised Technology Applications TEKS take effect this fall, Texas teachers can be ready with new, fully-aligned computer science courses from CoderZ by Intelitek. Created specifically for students in grades three through six, the courses also provide TEKS-aligned ELAR and mathematics extensions as well as robust support for interdisciplinary lessons.

Available in English and Spanish, CoderZ’s scaffolded lessons provide fun, engaging, and high-quality learning experiences for students of all backgrounds and abilities. Coding challenges, group activities, and open-ended projects all include differentiated support to ensure every student can reach their potential. The gamified learning environment, curricular resources, and professional development ensure educators have everything required to create a strong foundation in computing and robotics.

“Young people need to understand the impact and use of AI and smart technologies, both for their own benefit and for the benefit of society,” CEO of Intelitek Tony Oran said. “The need for skilled STEM workers is growing, and that growth is especially rapid in Texas. In fact, the state government estimates that STEM occupations will soon comprise 10.5% of total employment in the state.”

TEKS for Technology Application

Introduced in 2011, the TEKS for Technology Application (also called Technology Applications TEKS) standards focus on what students should know about technology and be able to do with it. The newly-revised standards better reflect the need for students to develop computational thinking and data analysis as well as overarching skills like communication and collaboration.

“While our courses have always provided students with a strong foundation in the principles of robotics and computing, our new uniquely designed and aligned Texas courses go even further,” Director of Pedagogy for CoderZ Elizabeth Bacon said. “They incorporate crucial topics such as digital citizenship, emerging technologies, and data analysis. Also, unlike other coding programs that remove math, science, and reading instruction to simplify content, and do not offer real-world application and context, CoderZ’s curriculum is designed to support student learning across all subject areas and from a perspective that provides context for real-world application. An interdisciplinary approach to STEM learning prepares students for the interdisciplinary nature of actual STEM work.”

For more information

For more information about the new Texas computer science courses for grades three through eight, please go to https://biz.gocoderz.com/coderzfortexas.

About Intelitek and CoderZ

Intelitek is at the forefront of training for STEM and CTE. With a focus on kindergarten to career the company offers CoderZ, a fun and equitable gamified and game-based learning experience to Industry 4.0 education for CTE. For four decades, the company’s innovative learning solutions have provided learners across the globe with the competencies needed for in-demand careers in production. Driven by its pedagogic commitment to students’ career readiness and lifelong learning skills, the company develops state-of-the-art tools and technologies for engineering, manufacturing, automation, and robotics technologies. These technologies, along with Intelitek’s programs, empower instructors and inspire students to pursue careers in cutting-edge businesses. For more information go to: www.intelitek.com

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MANCHESTER, NH, UNITED STATES, April 25, 2024 — On Tuesday, April 30, New Hampshire Department of Education (NHED) officials and CoderZ executives will visit Highland Goffe’s Falls Elementary School in Manchester, N.H. to present an “Excellence in STEM Award” to educator Kerstin Dumas who serves as the literacy specialist and robotics coach for the school. Educators from approximately 25 schools across the state were contenders for this year’s award.

The “Excellence in STEM Award”

This is CoderZ’s second year of presenting the “Excellence in STEM Award” to educators who use the New Hampshire Robotics Grant to produce engaging, collaborative, and equitable STEM programs for their schools. NHED issues these grants to public and public charter schools to finance the establishment of robotics teams and their participation in competitive events such as the NH CoderZ League, a statewide virtual robotics coding tournament facilitated by CoderZ.

The Excellence in STEM Award ceremony will begin with a visit to the computer room to observe Dumas’ students and how they use the CoderZ platform to learn robotics coding, collaboration, and other soft skills. Dumas will then be presented with a plaque recognizing her achievements by Frank Edelblut, Commissioner of New Hampshire Department of Education.

“We chose Kerstin for the award because her teams swept the Elementary Level in the NH CoderZ League last year, earning first, second, and third place among a total of 66 teams. They have also shown amazing academic, group, and personal growth,” said Tony Oran, CEO of CoderZ. “Not only did they succeed in collaboration and team efforts, but also individually – all of Kerstin’s students improved in their state testing scores. Six of her robotics students received a perfect 4 for math and reading on the New Hampshire Statewide Assessment System (NH SAS), and 15 team members received Golden Tickets for academic growth.”

Kerstin Dumas

Dumas earned her undergraduate degree in K-8 Elementary Education and Special Education, as well as an M.Ed. as a Reading and Writing Specialist from New England College. In 2022, she was nominated for Teacher of The Year and awarded the Christa McAuliffe Excellence in Teaching Award.

About CoderZ

Grounded in STEM and coding, CoderZ trains students grades 4 and beyond in computational thinking and technical ability. Confronted with real-world problem-solving, students must adapt to advance, strengthening their inner coach and developing the skills

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In recent years, the landscape of education in the United States has been undergoing a profound transformation, particularly when it comes to Computer Science (CS) education in K-12 schools. Across the nation, states are increasingly recognizing the importance of equipping students with digital literacy and coding skills to prepare them for the future job market. This shift towards integrating CS into K-12 curricula is not only a response to the changing technological landscape but also a recognition of the many benefits that come with it.  

Here we’ll explore how legislation for computer science in K-12 education is evolving in many states, why staying ahead of the curve in CS curriculum is essential, and how professional development (PD) plays a critical role in ensuring the success of this transition. 

The Changing Landscape of CS Education Legislation 

We’re all witnessing the world change rapidly, especially with advancements as it comes to AI. As technology continues to accelerate at an unprecedented pace, there is a growing demand for a workforce with strong computer science skills. Recognizing this need, many states have taken significant steps to introduce and support CS education in their K-12 schools. Legislation in various forms, including bills, mandates, and guidelines, has been introduced to promote the integration of CS into existing curricula. 

One of the key documents shaping this change is the 2023 “Designing for CS Integration into Existing K-5 Subjects in the US” report by the Computer Science Education Research (CSED) organization. This report highlights the importance of incorporating CS into subjects across the K-5 spectrum, emphasizing the integration of computational thinking and problem-solving skills into everyday learning. Such initiatives reflect a broader shift in educational policy towards recognizing CS as a fundamental skillset, alongside reading, writing, and mathematics. 

The Importance of Staying Ahead in CS Curriculum 

As the push for CS education gains momentum, schools and districts must acknowledge the urgency of adapting their curricula to accommodate this change. There are several compelling reasons why getting ahead in CS education is a valuable move: 

• Future-Proofing: The job market of the future will demand computer science skills, regardless of the career path students choose. Nearly every industry today, from manufacturing to agriculture,  has elements of CS that are required by the job. By introducing CS early, schools ensure that their graduates are well-prepared for a rapidly changing world. 
• Equity and Access: Early exposure to CS reduces disparities in access to technology and opportunities. It ensures that all students, regardless of their backgrounds, have a chance to develop essential digital literacy skills. 
• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: CS education fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. These skills are not only valuable in the field of technology but also in everyday life. Many state and national standards are now requiring these skills. 
• Economic Benefits: States that invest in CS education are likely to see economic benefits in the form of a skilled workforce and increased innovation. 

Professional Development: A Critical Component 

While the legislative changes and curriculum updates are essential, the success of these initiatives depends heavily on the preparedness of educators. Many teachers may not have had formal CS training, which makes professional development beneficial for long-term health and growth of CS programs.  

Here’s why PD is critical: 

• Building Community and Capacity: Do you want to build a sustainable way to teach CS for not only this year but the next few years? PD programs empower educators with the knowledge and skills needed to teach CS effectively, which benefits EVERYONE. Teachers are more likely to feel they are equipped to perform the job required of them, and this improves teacher turnover and staff shortages.   
• Pedagogical Techniques: Teaching CS requires specialized pedagogical techniques. PD helps teachers develop strategies for engaging students and making CS concepts accessible. Having a platform and curriculum crafted from former educators and experts in CS that eat, sleep and breathe PD is critical. Enter CoderZ Pedagogy Team. 
• Interdisciplinary Integration: PD can assist educators in seamlessly integrating CS into existing subjects, as suggested in the CSED report. This interdisciplinary approach enhances the learning experience. 
• Staying Current: Technology evolves rapidly. PD ensures that educators stay up-to-date with the latest tools, languages, and methodologies in the CS field. 

While we believe strongly in the value of PD, we also know that sometimes Administrators have limited options and resources, and yet are still faced with requirements to make Computer Science a reality in their schools.  

CoderZ’s extensive teacher resources allow new-to-CS teachers and even seasoned CS teachers to ramp up on course content and pedagogical knowledge, so they know how to best teach computer science in the classroom. Our mission is to set up teachers for success, even if they are going into teaching CoderZ without much background in coding or computer science.  

This is especially important for districts struggling with teacher shortages or turnover because students can benefit from computer science education without administrators needing to immediately assign a dedicated resource to computer science. Teachers can get started now, just with the teacher resources available in the platform, and later can fully develop their CS community and teaching identity with expert professional development opportunities. Teacher resources include mission breakdowns, speaker notes, and how to structure the class to support learning. 

Kindergarten to Career 

CoderZ is the only company of its kind that offers a learning pathway from Kindergarten to Career. We are designed for grades 3-12 and ensure students are equipped for success in the jobs of tomorrow. We spark a love for STEM and robotics for those who may not see themselves represented in STEM fields. We build confidence, resilience, and 21st Century Skills in students across the world. 

By staying ahead in CS curriculum development and providing educators with the necessary training, we can ensure that the next generation is well prepared to face the challenges and opportunities of the digital age. The future is digital, and our education system must reflect that reality to provide students with the best possible foundation for success. 

Helping Students Thrive in a Technology Driven World 

The integration of CS into K-12 education holds immense potential for students, as it equips them with the skills needed to thrive in a technology-driven world. We are seeing more and more data driven stories as well as anecdotal stories about the benefits of integrating tech at even earlier ages.  

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In today’s rapidly evolving world, computer science (CS) and technology skills have become indispensable tools for addressing a wide range of societal challenges. Technology and computing are in all industries including farming and agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and retail. And yet, the importance of maximizing our CS innovative progress in ways that are sustainably and culturally beneficial is often overlooked.  

Participation of traditionally underrepresented and underserved students has continued to remain low in computer science subjects and career paths, especially for girls and Black and Brown students. But technology is an important aspect of education for students to be prepared for the future and set up for success in almost every career of tomorrow. 

What Can Culturally Responsive Technology Education Look Like? 

One of the fundamental aspects of utilizing CS and technology skills in a culturally responsive way is ensuring that educational programs are inclusive and accessible to a diverse range of students. There is a pressing need to diversify the tech industry, and this begins with fostering inclusive learning environments that encompass computer science into various subjects, and provide CS options for all students.   

There is a big push to include CS in all high schools, as there should be. But while there is value in offering or implementing CS in all grades, the sooner young learners are introduced to the world of computer science, the greater the chance their curiosity will be piqued, which can ultimately lead to a deeper understanding and increased likelihood of success in school, in CS, and in a career/job. 

Key takeaway: It’s never too late to bring CS opportunities to students, but the sooner the better. 

Broadening Participation 

Curriculum brought to the classroom plays a pivotal role in introducing students to CS and technology. To make CS culturally responsive, schools must actively encourage underrepresented students, including women and people of color, to engage with these fields by providing opportunities, scholarships, and mentorship programs. Access to a CS class or curriculum does not always mean success. Students need support and this can also look like teachers also need support.  

Additionally, representation matters and can be the key to inspiring students to believe in themselves. When students see and interact with someone that looks like them succeed in a STEM field, it can be an imperative nudge for their own mindset about their own capabilities. This can bridge the gap and cultivate a more diverse tech workforce. 

Key takeaway: Providing opportunities is a crucial first step, but access to CS does not always mean success. Support for students and teachers is needed.  

Cultivating Inclusivity 

Curriculum development is a vital aspect of creating culturally responsive CS education. As many states mandate CS in the classroom, schools should offer courses that not only include CS and teach coding, but also emphasize the importance of ethics, social responsibility, and the cultural context in which technology operates. This approach helps students understand how CS can be a force for positive change in society. 

Sustainable Technology Solutions: Environmental Awareness 

K12 computer science classes can integrate sustainability by teaching students about the environmental impacts of technology. Research by the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) highlights that integrating sustainability into computer science education fosters a deeper understanding of the ecological consequences of technological choices. This includes exploring topics such as energy-efficient coding, reducing electronic waste, and developing algorithms for sustainable resource management.  This empowers students to not only develop essential technical skills but also become conscientious digital citizens capable of making eco-conscious decisions in an increasingly technology-driven world. This approach aligns with the broader goals of preparing the next generation to address pressing environmental challenges. 

Problem-Solving for Sustainability 

CS and technology skills are invaluable for designing sustainable solutions. K12 education and curriculum designed with sustainability in mind can encourage students to tackle real-world sustainability challenges, such as creating apps to track and reduce carbon footprints or developing smart devices for efficient energy consumption. 

Collaborative and Multidisciplinary Approaches 

To achieve culturally responsive and sustainable outcomes, encouraging collaborative and multidisciplinary projects that blend CS and technology with other subjects like social sciences, arts, and humanities is important. These projects can help students gain a deeper understanding of how technology impacts various aspects of society. CoderZ designs their curriculum to be multidisciplinary, inclusive and applicable for use in science, math and even ELA classes. 

Incorporating CS and technology skills into culturally responsive and sustainable education is not just a trend; it’s a necessity. Those of us in education have a unique opportunity to empower the next generation of tech innovators to think critically about cultural inclusivity and environmental sustainability. By broadening participation, fostering inclusivity, and addressing sustainability concerns, we can ensure that CS and technology skills are used to build a more equitable and sustainable future for all. 

All Hands-on-Deck 

It’s time for an all hands-on-deck effort. It’s time to rethink how we teach CS and technology and emphasize the importance of supporting teachers as they embark on this challenge. By embracing these changes, we can harness the power of technology to address cultural and environmental challenges while nurturing a diverse and socially conscious generation of tech leaders. 

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In the dynamic world of technology and education, there is an ever-present desire to adapt, grow, transform, and improve. We’re constantly looking for ways to reshape the STEM learning landscape and apply new approaches to enhance the teaching and learning experience. While change is typical in EdTech, one such transformation has taken center stage here at CoderZ, where we’ve worked hard to pioneer a legacy at the crossroads of coding education and innovation.  

With visionary zeal and a wealth of experience, Tony Oran stepped into the role of CEO, heralding a new era for CoderZ. 

Unveiling the Maestro of Transformation: Tony Oran 

Tony Oran’s ascent to the position of CEO has brought an exciting new energy to the atmosphere at CoderZ. An accomplished leader known for his ability to fuse innovation with strategic execution, Tony brings a fresh perspective to CoderZ. With a proven track record in navigating the intricate interplay of technology and education, he stands as a driving force behind the company’s mission to empower the next generation of coders. 

A Glimpse into the First 100 Days 

The first 100 days of any new CEO’s tenure are often regarded as a litmus test of their vision and strategy. It’s a period of introspection, transformation, and strategic recalibration. In the case of Tony, these initial days are poised to be a prologue to an exciting chapter in CoderZ’s journey.  

Our Marketing Team had the privilege to sit down with Tony and ask him some questions about the first 100 days in his new role and were delighted to have the opportunity to share a glimpse into the takeaways from this initial period in an exciting new chapter.  

Tony, upon accepting the job as CEO of CoderZ North America, what were some initial goals and strategies you wanted to bring to the company in the first 100 days?  

“I came to CoderZ and this whole world of computer science, coding, and virtual robotics for one reason. With this product, we can impact hundreds of thousands of young minds and introduce them to the fantastic world of STEM through gamified learning and virtual competitions. I could leverage my network of visionaries and thought leaders in technical education that I have developed for the past 20 years. At one point, I actually heard myself say, ‘This will be easy. This will be so much fun’!” 

How did your plans change or stay the same according to your original vision for the first 100 days? 

“After my first 100 days in this role, I can clearly state that the reason I came here is still true. I can also still say that this is fun! However, it is not easy. I am facing many of the same challenges that I faced in my former role: Lack of instructors who feel supported, empowered and prepared to teach CS, funding challenges, lack of state standards. This list goes on. The disappointing part is that on the back side of the pandemic, funding has really become a challenge.”

What were the most significant challenges you encountered during the initial months, and how did you overcome them? 

“The biggest challenge so far is simply lack of awareness around the need and benefit of coding in education, and the transformative effects and relevancy it has as it relates to other subjects and learning in general. In many cases, robotics and coding is simply a club or after school opportunity. While I fully support and value these programs, I am hopeful that our education system will see the importance of using a tool like CoderZ to improve a Math or Science course. At the same time, we are working hard to spread the word about the benefits of these topics with the goal of becoming a thought leader in STEM Education.” 

What do you consider your leadership style and how has that translated to leading CoderZ North America?  

“My leadership style is based upon some basic things: Transparency, Inclusion, Diversity, Empowerment and Positivity. This translates well to my role as CEO of CoderZ as our mission is to make coding available to all. This also translates well with our staff of passionate people who deeply care about the quality of education of today and tomorrow. I am transparent with all of them. I include them in the development of our strategy and then empower them to implement and execute on it. We have a very diverse demographic of staff which brings innovation, various perspectives in thoughts and ideas, and ultimately makes us a more inclusive platform. Most importantly, we have a very positive culture.” 

What milestones have you set and what milestones are you most looking forward to?  

“My current milestones are focused on developing a long-term strategy dedicated to growth and customer success – Schools, Teachers, and Students. We are working to deploy an efficacy study to demonstrate the positive impacts of our platform. I am very excited that we are also working to develop credentials in the form of digital badges for coding and virtual robotics.” 

What were you most nervous about before you started your role as CEO for CoderZ North America, and what were you most excited about? How does that compare now?  

“Of course I was nervous when I decided to leave a very good career of 19 years with the same company. I was stepping into a role where I had a lot to learn and needed to figure out how to guide and inspire a whole new group of people. At the same time, this also excited me. I was ready for the next step and for the challenge to see how my skills in leadership, sales, marketing and knowledge of the technical education system would translate to this new role. I approached the opportunity with a great deal of thoughtfulness and dedication.” 

What is your continued vision for the next 365 days 

“Over the next year, we will tailor our offering to match up to the evolving state standards for computer science. We will also reevaluate our Professional Development program to further enhance customer success in the classroom. The development and rollout of credentials will play a key role in supporting the CTE community which is in desperate need of an additional incoming pipeline of students. Finally, we are beginning to expand the platform to include not just mobile robots such as Lego Spike Prime, but also industrial robotic applications which will create a ‘Kindergarten to Career’ learning path to guide students from coding and computer science  to CTE.” 

What were the most important lessons you learned during your first 100 days as CEO at CoderZ? 

“We all know the educational system has flaws, I have been made painfully aware of just how fragmented it is and the challenges that creates for an organization like CoderZ to grow.  I also learned that we cannot fulfill our strategic growth plan one school at a time, like I did in the traditional CTE space. We are engaging in top-down business development to connect with key decision makers to demonstrate how we can bring so many young minds into STEM programs at very early ages and give them the opportunity to make CS exciting and engaging.  

We have so many stories from our customers that tell us how CoderZ improves attendance, class engagement, and test scores in subjects like Math, Reading, and Science. We make coding and robotics programming relevant to the real world and to students’ day-to-day lives, (like with our Amazon Cyber Robotics Challenge, Airport City, and more). We have such a great story to tell and are working toward creating a legacy of impact.” 

Pioneering Coding Education with CoderZ 

At its core, CoderZ is more than just a company; it’s a conduit for change in the education sector. CoderZ’s foundation rests on the belief that coding is not just a skill, but a gateway to creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Our company has carved a niche by offering an innovative platform that combines virtual coding environments with comprehensive curricula, providing students and educators with an immersive experience that transcends traditional learning methods. We are thrilled to continue to take the CS education world by storm with the guidance of Tony Oran.  

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DERRY, N.H. – April 3, 2023 – CoderZ, the award-winning, gamified, cloud-based robotics and STEM platform, has announced that Tony Oran is joining the company as its CEO in the USA.

Oran has extensive experience in sales, marketing as well as business leadership and development. He comes to CoderZ from Festo Didactic, the technical education equipment and solution provider where he held several executive positions, most recently vice president of sales for the company’s North America division. Before that, Oran was also director of strategic business development and partnerships.

Previously, Oran held multiple management roles at Festo Didactic’s parent company Festo Group, a worldwide supplier of automation technology, equipment, and solutions for industrial and technical education. Before Festo, he served as an operations leader for various companies.

During his time at Festo Group, Oran became a board member for Nocti Business Solutions, an international company offering occupational competency testing services. In 2022, he joined the board of the National Coalition of Advanced Technology Centers, a network of higher education resources connecting industry, education, and government.

“Tony’s years of business experience have provided him with a deep expertise in technical education,” said Yoram Doitch, Chairman of the board of RoboGroup, CoderZ’s parent company. “We’re extremely pleased to have someone with his depth and breadth of experience at the helm of CoderZ, and we look forward to supporting him as he takes the company through its next phase of growth.”

“I’m honored to be CoderZ’s new CEO,” said Oran. “The company is revolutionizing the K-12 STEM and computer science landscape and its offerings are igniting students’ passion for STEM through robotics, coding and computer science while fostering future-ready college and career skills. I am committed to drawing on all the insights I’ve gained from over two decades in the industrial and technical education sector to build on the excellent work that’s already been done and supporting and collaborating with educators while helping deepen students’ understanding of robotics and coding.”

CoderZ is a STEM solution built to create educational impact.

The team at CoderZ believe STEM and Computer Science education are essential for the future and should be universally available to all kids. CoderZ is a gamified coding platform that makes it easy for anyone to learn (and teach), using robots to bring the subject matter to life!

CoderZ League is a groundbreaking, international online robotics tournament. The tournament engages students through gaming and competition in STEM, coding, and tech literacy. CoderZ League is cloud-based and uses simulation of virtual 3D Robots to perform complex tasks and missions. The virtual experience inspires students to collaborate and develop life skills as they have fun.

About CoderZ

CoderZ offers fun and equitable gamified and game-based learning experiences to support the development of computing and robotics skills in elementary and secondary school students. Grounded in STEM and coding, CoderZ trains students in grades four through 12 in computational thinking and technical ability. Confronted with real-world problem solving, students must adapt to advance, strengthening their inner coach and developing skills they’ll need beyond the classroom. For more information or to request a demo, please go to CoderZ.

Media Contact:
Charlotte Andrist
Nickel Communications
charlotte@nickelcommpr.com
770-310-5244

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