Middle and high school students will unveil interactive light displays they designed and coded through NewBoCo’s Girls Who Code program during a community celebration Nov. 22.
The Holiday Light Display Showcase begins at 4:15 p.m. at CSPS Hall, 1103 3rd St. SE, followed by a self-directed walking tour of student-created installations throughout Cedar Rapids’ New Bohemia District.
According to a news release, 29 students spent 10 weeks learning coding and design skills to create custom light displays now featured at seven local businesses: Almost Famous Popcorn, CSPS, Crosby’s, Hangry Lady, Lu’s Deli, Mode and Raygun. The programmed displays will remain up through year’s end.
“We love the skills and excitement this collaborative project brings for students and the community,” said Samantha Dahlby, director of education at the New Bohemian Innovation Collaborative, which operates the Girls Who Code program. “Our industry volunteers have been instrumental in helping students envision, build and install unique projects.”
The program brings together young women and their allies in grades 3-12 for weekly sessions where they learn foundational computer science skills through hands-on projects. Industry professionals mentor students and demonstrate career opportunities in technology fields.
“This showcase is a powerful example of what young people can achieve when they’re supported with real tools, real mentors and real opportunities,” said Stefanie Munsterman, director of development at NewBoCo. “We’re grateful to our community and partners who make these experiences possible and help open doors for kids all across Cedar Rapids.”
NewBoCo is a nonprofit organization based in Cedar Rapids’ New Bohemia neighborhood that supports entrepreneurship and technology education.
