Montgomery Can Code: MCPS Middle Schoolers Learn Coding with Apple Products

School was not entirely out this past summer for some MCPS students who are embracing technology skills. Over four weeks, from mid-July to early August, 550 rising sixth, seventh, and eighth graders learned to code using Swift playgrounds, an Apple software program designed for the iPad, during the Montgomery Can Code summer program.  

During each one-week session, students created an application prototype and a presentation (either individually or as part of a group). They pitched their ideas to the group on the last day of camp. Seven finalists were presented, and two winners were announced at the Montgomery Can Code Virtual App Challenge Showcase, a virtual event held Thursday, September 14. 

The camp’s first week was the only in-person, full-day option, held at locations on all three Montgomery College campuses; about 200 students opted to attend. The remaining 350 participants participated virtually on Zoom in a half-day format.  

During the camp’s Career Pathway Days (Friday of each week), students had an opportunity to talk about future careers and interact with guest speakers that included IT professionals from the local business community, federal government employees, representatives from Apple, and MC staff.  

“While it began in 2019, the program took on more significance this year, as it aligned with Maryland Blueprint initiatives to provide early career guidance and career awareness to students from sixth grade up. This was also the first year the camp offered in-person activity,” said Kimberly Bloch Rincan, ignITe Hub director.  

Montgomery Can Code is a partnership of Montgomery County Public Schools, Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation, and Montgomery College. Funded by Montgomery County government and operated by Workforce Development and Continuing Education and the ignITe Hub, the program has served more than 4,500 MCPS students in summer and after-school programs. 

Organizers plan to continue offering Montgomery Can Code in a hybrid format. Registration for summer begins in April. For more information, visit montgomerycancode.comnew window.

Banner Photo Caption: Montgomery Can Code students who attended in person at the Germantown Campus this summer. The partnership program, funded by Montgomery County government and operated by Workforce Development and Continuing Education and the ignITe Hub, has served more than 4,500 students since 2019.