Today, Code Next launched its doors in Oakland, marking the start of a mission to introduce coding to black and Latino students and address the tech industry’s diversity gap. Errol King, the program’s experience manager, emphasized the importance of building with, not just for, the community.
Oakland, known for its diversity, holds immense untapped potential for future coders and engineers, according to Oakland entrepreneur Freada Kapor Klein. Despite this, demographic reports from major tech companies reveal significant underrepresentation of minorities and women in the industry, highlighting the need for initiatives like Code Next.
The lack of access to computer science education poses a significant barrier for black and Latino students. Google’s Code Next aims to change this narrative by offering an open-ended curriculum focused on exploration and creativity. The program, which began with a pilot involving ninth-graders, seeks to equip students with the skills needed for future computer science-related jobs.
Google’s decision to launch Code Next in Oakland stems from its commitment to collaborating with diverse communities and promoting computer science education. However, some skepticism exists regarding the tech giant’s ability to effectively engage with the community. Despite this, stakeholders like Claire Shorall from the Oakland Unified School District acknowledge Google’s unique approach and emphasize the importance of community engagement to ensure the program’s success.