Instructor (Virtual) - Summer 2024

Remote - East Palo Alto, CA United States

Department: Skills

Reports To: Learning Experience Design Manager

Classification: Non Exempt/Part-Time/Temporary

Commitment: May 20, 2024- August 2, 2024 for Summer Classes with an option to renew for Fall Classes (September 9- November 22)

Location: Remote

About StreetCode

We believe in Innovation for Everyone. And in order to help open the doors of opportunity for the next generation of leaders and innovators, we are committed to our mission to empower communities of color with the mindsets, skills, and access to participate in the innovation economy. We provide historically economically disadvantaged people of color with experiences that work together to help develop the high-tech skills, confidence, and access to networks needed to develop personal creations and pursue economic possibilities within the innovation industry.

StreetCode Academy engages communities seeking justice, innovation, and tech-driven economic opportunities. 

  • Through building mindset, skills and networks, we equip individuals and families with resources they seek to expand their life options.  
  • Through tech education, we empower communities of color to use their authentic voices and diverse perspectives to realize self-determination.  
  • Through our innovation, we transform and create an industry that truly represents the vitality and diversity of our world.

About StreetCode Classes

Classes offered through StreetCode function less like a traditional classroom setting and more like a guided exploration in a hands-on, project-based manner. Your role as an Instructor is less about delivering content and more about providing structure for students to take ownership of their education and develop their excitement about learning and about tech.  As part of StreetCode’s teaching staff, you will provide high-quality tech classes primarily focused on inspiring learners as they explore technology to express their creativity and develop their mindsets. Our summer quarter classes will run between June - August 2024. Both in-person and virtual classes will be offered.

Job Summary

Instructors are the figureheads of each class. They are responsible for creating curriculum, managing class Mentors, executing lesson plans, communicating with students, and doing additional work that might be necessary to prepare for your class. The Instructors may also be responsible for developing or adjusting curriculum outside of class - independently and with the guidance of the Learning Experience Design Team. Instructors provide high-quality instruction and leadership in the classroom.

Our Classes

StreetCode classes span a variety of subjects within coding, entrepreneurship, and design. Students gain skills that directly apply to career paths such as game development, brand management, and digital art just to name a few. We welcome anyone with a passion for empowering communities of color to apply for this position. A list of our past and current classes can be found at https://streetcode.org/all-classes/

StreetCode is currently recruiting Instructors for the following classes:

Jr. StreetCode - Monday 4pm - 6pm PST, Ages: 4-8

Jr. StreetCode teaches students fundamental skills such as computer literacy, reading, and writing, and introduces them to Game Design. Students spend time honing computer skills and they also spend time in maker space activities using their hands. This class is full of fun activities geared towards helping kids explore their creativity, learn age-appropriate programming concepts, and revisit the fundamentals of learning (i.e., students refreshing reading/writing/and number identification).

Python Pioneers - Monday 4-6pm PST, Ages: 13+ 

This class is designed to inspire a love of coding and help children develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills that will serve them well in the future. In this class, students will be introduced to fundamental principles of coding and programming, with a focus on the Python programming language. Through a series of interactive and engaging lessons, participants will learn about programming concepts such as variables, loops, and conditional statements, and how they are used to create computer programs. They will also discover how Python can be used to create simple programs, such as games and simulations. By the end of the class, kids will have gained valuable skills in coding and programming, and be able to apply these skills to their continued journey towards expert programming.

Game Design with Roblox - Monday 4-6pm PST, Ages 8+

This is a class for students who are passionate about video games. Using Roblox Studio to create their own Roblox games, students learn what it takes to make a video game. Along the way, they learn the different elements that make up a game, and learn how to talk about their favorite games through the critical lens of a game designer. Students also learn how to make ANYTHING with a map editor, how to make their game pretty, and how to breathe life into their game with basic scripting. Finally, students learn how to work professionally in the video game industry, and how to make video games for a living. Students walk away from the class with an increased understanding of video games, how they are made, a couple games of their own, and an increased passion for video games!

Kidpreneurs - Monday 4-6pm PST, Ages: 8-13

Kidpreneurs is designed for kids aged 8-13. This class promotes creativity, resilience, and resourcefulness! Kidpreneurs empowers kids to turn their ideas into fully-fledged startups. In this class, we’ll cover the ideation and product development stages as well as initial exposure to marketing, sales, KPI measurement, and the economics behind investment. Throughout the course, we will be engaging in thrilling, interactive activities from going over case studies of “unicorn” businesses to playing entrepreneurship-themed games and activities--don’t miss out on the fun!

TechX & TechEquis - Monday 6-8pm PST, Ages: 13+ 

Tech Exposure is perfect for anyone who feels they know little to nothing about tech and is interested in learning how to more effectively use a computer. Tech Exposure introduces students to a variety of introductory technical tools, hardware, and software. Various hands-on activities are provided to empower students to use tech tools and build their professional skills. In addition, the class is student directed, meaning instructors tailor curriculum to the topics students are interested in. Students learn how to use and manipulate web browsers, set up and learn to manage email accounts, and complete independent research projects. Tech Exposure en Español, is also available as “Exposición a la Tecnología”/“TechEquis”

Intro to Code - Monday 6-8pm PST, Ages: 13+

Intro to Code is an introduction to how programming works. The concrete skills students learn in this class relate to how to design and implement a computer program. Many of the platforms and technologies students use to write and develop code will expose them to a wide range of software applications regularly used by engineers. Students will learn to interact and work with other students to solve computer science problems together. These first-time coders will learn Python!

Next Level Code - Monday 6-8pm PST, Ages: 13+

This Python course takes your coding journey further, enabling you to build projects like interactive story platforms and sports statistics trackers. It's not just about coding, but understanding the principles behind programming, which are essential for grasping how AI and other emerging technologies function. As you delve into advanced Python skills, you're also laying the groundwork for a deeper comprehension of how algorithms and data structures drive today's tech innovations. This class is ideal for those who have some CS fundamentals and are curious about the mechanics behind AI and future tech. Join us to see how coding can open doors to understanding and participating in the technological advancements of tomorrow.

Coding Career Technical Prep - Monday, 6-8pm PST, Ages: 13+

Elevate your coding skills and confidence with this course, designed specifically for those with an intermediate background in programming. Here, we will cover advanced coding principles needed to understand and complete coding challenges. We will also equip you with the strategies and know-how to ace technical interviews, focusing on the Byteboard Interview process. Whether you're aiming for a tech job or seeking to sharpen your coding abilities, this course offers a blend of learning and practical preparation for the competitive tech landscape. Join us to transform your potential into achievement, readying you for the challenges and opportunities of the tech industry.

Web & App Design - Monday 6-8pm PST, Ages: 13+

In our Web & App Design course, unlock your creative potential without needing a tech background. Students in “Web & App Design” will learn how to design apps and think about the user experience. The class will push students to develop storytelling, researching, and prototyping skills in regards to design. In this class, students do not learn how to code, but instead, learn the design process for various things: computer apps, mobile apps, and apps for consoles - like Instagram and Spotify. This course offers the guidance and excitement to explore the world of design.

Intro to Hustle - Monday 6-8pm PST, Ages: 16+

Intro to Hustle is an introductory level class where students learn the basics of starting a business and enhancing entrepreneurial skills. This class encourages students to think on a large scale: go BIG or go home. Students in this class develop and create their business ideas, make a pitch deck, learn about market analysis and focused sales, and write a business plan. Intro to Hustle helps students who are shy, who need help telling their story, and/or who are looking for valuable feedback. Students learn about the hard work CEOs put in to get their business ideas off the ground. This class helps students develop products by thinking through pricing, production, and related costs; they create or strengthen their business identities - the name, the logo, and the communication of branding; and, they learn customer service skills, bookkeeping skills, and interpersonal skills. By the end of this course, students will have the necessary skills to start a small business or level up an existing business, talk to investors/an audience about their company, and take their business idea to market. 

Intro to Hustle 2: Branding, Marketing - Monday 6-8pm PST, Ages 16+

Intro to Hustle is an introductory-level class where students learn the basics of starting a business and enhancing entrepreneurial skills. In this next level class, we’re introducing a new focus to enhance your business model by developing Your Brand, Voice and Vision! Your business brand is key to clients and customers understanding your story and business vision. Developing a voice is also an integral part of YOU as it translates your authenticity to the world and allows for intentional business relationships. Students will create or strengthen their business identities - the name, the logo, the communication of branding, and interpersonal skills. Students in this class develop their business ideas and create a solid marketing/branding component to their business plan. Intro to Hustle helps students who are shy, who need help telling their story, and/or who are looking for valuable feedback. Students learn about the hard work CEOs put in to get their business ideas off the ground. 

If none of these classes speak to your skills and/or interests, don't worry! StreetCode accepts applications on a rolling basis.

Essential Job Functions

  • Available to work up to 40 hours (flexible timing) before each quarter starts for curriculum planning and staff training (remote).
  • Attendance at biweekly check-ins with manager and staff, and two training/orientation sessions, scheduled per group availability (either onsite or remote).
  • Available on Mondays between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM or 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM PST, for teaching the class (remote).

Curriculum Development/Adjustments and Teaching

  • Collaborate with the Learning Experience Design Team to establish scope, sequence, learning outcomes, Demo Day projects, and lesson plans for the quarter.
  • Ensure the teaching team and class Mentors know the agenda for the day and exactly what they are expected to do before the start of each session.
  • Watch, interact, and take note of how students progress throughout the quarter.
  • Adjust the pace and content of the class as needed.
  • Establish and maintain classroom norms.

Program Check-Ins

  • Schedule debriefs with volunteer Mentors assigned to your class at the beginning or end of each class. Ask Mentors about programs and if they have any questions, concerns, or suggestions regarding the class.
  • Attend quarterly check-ins with the Learning Experience Design Manager - individually by appointment.

Training and Events

  • Attend Instructor training(s), Mentor orientation, and student orientation.
  • Support the Learning Experience Design Team during Mentor orientation.

Program Operations

  • Record student and Mentor attendance.
  • Discuss repeated absences, trends, and/or disturbances to class with a Learning Experience Design Manager.
  • Reports any/all behavioral disturbances to a Learning Experience Design Manager.
  • Send communications and updates as necessary and determined by a Learning Experience Design Manager. 

Minimum Required Qualifications

  • Cultural competence and commitment to the local community
  • Desire to be part of a justice-seeking community of students and educators in tech
  • Experience teaching and/or working with youth
  • Some level of technical/industry-related experience about the course you’re teaching (not necessarily required for all teaching positions depending on which class)
  • Strong written and verbal English skills, with Spanish proficiency a bonus
  • Contribute positively to the culture of StreetCode in your interactions with students, parents, staff, guests, and community members
  • Leadership skills in the classroom
  • Be able to manage student behaviors and help them refocus (especially for younger kids)
  • Ability to establish and maintain the tone of the learning environment
  • Ability to positively engage and motivate program participants
  • Comfortable working independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment 
  • Excellent judgment, problem-solving, and resourcefulness
  • Willingness to take feedback and improve processes constantly

Working Conditions 

  • Location: Preference will be given to applicants located in the San Francisco Bay Area. Some remote work will be required. Both onsite and online Instructors are needed.
  • Hours: Part-time, flexible schedule with required evening work (Mon 6:00 - 8:00 PM PST).

Disclaimer

This job description is not an exhaustive list of all functions that the employee may be required to perform, and the employee may be required to perform additional functions. 

StreetCode Academy reserves the right to revise the job description at any time. 

Employment with StreetCode Academy is at will. 

Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job, absent undue hardship.

Acknowledgment 

“I have read this job description (or had it read to me) and I fully understand all my job duties and responsibilities. I am able to perform the duties and responsibilities as outlined, with or without reasonable accommodation. I understand that my job duties and responsibilities may change on a temporary or regular basis according to the needs of my location or department and if so I will be required to perform such additional duties and responsibilities. If I have any questions about job duties not specified in this description that I am asked to perform, I should discuss them with my immediate supervisor or a member of the HR staff.”

*We reserve the right to modify or amend the job description