Code.org Internships: Opportunities in Computer Science Education

Code.org is a non-profit organization dedicated to expanding access to computer science in K-12 schools and increasing participation by young women and students from other underrepresented groups. Their vision is that every student in every school has the opportunity to learn computer science as part of their core K-12 education. Internships at Code.org offer valuable experiences in software engineering, curriculum development, and advocacy, contributing to their mission of making computer science education accessible to all.

Why Intern at Code.org?

Code.org internships provide a unique blend of professional development and a supportive work environment. Employees report high levels of job satisfaction, with positive ratings for office perks and a collaborative atmosphere. Interns can expect to be engaged and challenged, with opportunities to develop close friendships with colleagues.

Internships serve as a crucial foundation for professional growth. Code.org prioritizes professional development, offering interns a chance to learn best practices in coding, testing, and deployment. The organization's commitment to diversity and inclusion creates a welcoming environment for individuals from all backgrounds.

Internship Opportunities

Code.org offers various internships tailored to different skill sets and interests. These internships provide hands-on experience in software development, curriculum design, and advocacy.

Software Engineering Internships

As a Software Engineering Intern at Code.org, individuals join a team focused on delivering software products and operating services used by millions of students and teachers worldwide. Interns gain experience in coding, testing, and reliable deployment, contributing to real-world technology projects.

Applicants should have completed some post-secondary Computer Science coursework by the start of the internship. Code.org operates a Bring Your Own Device environment. The priority application date for this role is March 12th, and preference is given to applications submitted by this date.

State Policy Remote Internships

The Code.org State Policy Remote Internship is designed for students pursuing a master's or doctoral degree in public policy, public administration, political science, education, or a related field. Interns support state-by-state advocacy efforts to expand K-12 access to computer science education.

Responsibilities include researching state education policy, synthesizing information for the government affairs team, performing data analysis, and helping execute the state policy agenda. Projects may involve compiling and analyzing data from national sources, with a focus on student enrollment and demographic data.

General Requirements and Considerations

Code.org requires that all full-time employees be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to safeguard the health of employees and their families. The organization is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity, not discriminating on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. They provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities throughout the application process and employment.

Additional Resources and Learning Opportunities

Code.org provides a range of resources for students of all ages and experience levels to explore computer science. These resources include:

Curriculum Catalog: Comprehensive curriculum offerings for every grade and experience level, featuring structured and self-paced learning options.
Video Library: Engaging and informative videos to learn about key AI and computer science concepts.
Hour of AI: Short-form activities and resources for all age levels.
CS Journeys: Exploration of the wide world of computer science.

Learning for Different Age Groups

Grades K-5 (Ages 5 to 11): Start with an Hour of AI, then dive into block-based coding and learn with videos that cover AI+CS education.
Grades 6-12+ (Ages 11 and Up): Explore self-paced courses on apps, games, and animations. Try App Lab, Game Lab, or Web Lab, and learn how AI works, real-world careers, and scholarships.

Connecting Computer Science to Careers

Code.org helps students see where AI+CS can take them through videos, virtual field trips, and hands-on activities that bring real-world pathways to life. These resources empower students to take the next step in their CS journey.

Career Exploration Resources

Careers in Computer Science Videos: Meet people who are tackling big problems in creative ways in computer science and technology.
Virtual Field Trips: Join virtual tours to see how computer science is applied in various industries and environments. Examples include exploring Amazon's data centers, going behind the scenes at Amazon Music, and joining Amazon, Lockheed Martin, and Webex for a look at the technology being tested on NASA's Artemis I mission.
My Journey Career Chats: Introduce students to a diverse group of people using computer science to explore space, build robots, create TV shows, and more.

Curriculum Connections

Code.org courses help students discover real-world career pathways in computer science and AI.

Grades 3-5: Career Journeys in CS and AI: Students explore real-world careers that use computer science and AI and create a Sprite Lab project that highlights a career or interest.
Grades 9-12: Artificial Intelligence Foundations: A free, flexible curriculum that introduces students to the core principles and real-world applications of computer science.
Grades 2-12: Music Lab: Jam Session: Remix tracks from artists while exploring coding basics like sequencing, functions, and generating beats with AI.

Apprenticeships and Alternative Paths

For students seeking alternatives to college, Code.org highlights apprenticeships and technical training programs.

Apprenti: Technical training and year-long paid apprenticeships at tech companies.
Multiverse: Paid CS apprenticeships at top companies and career development.
NPower: Work-study program in select states for military veterans and students from underserved communities.
Year Up United: Year-long program that includes six months of technical training and a six-month corporate internship.

Additional Internship Resources

Code.org also provides information on internships for students entering or in college:

InStep from Infosys: Internships across the globe with opportunities spanning artificial intelligence, sustainability, big data, and more.
Microsoft Internships: Paid internship opportunities in fields like software engineering, UX design, data science, and more.

For high school students, Code.org lists the following:

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Genesys Works: Year-long program for high school students includes technical training and a paid corporate internship.
Microsoft High School Internships: On-the-job learning and opportunities to contribute to real-world technology projects at Microsoft.

Code.org's Vision and Values

Code.org's vision is that every student in every school has the opportunity to learn about artificial intelligence (AI) and computer science (CS) as part of their core K-12 education. Their core values include:

Computer Science is Foundational: Computer science is fundamental to active and informed participation in an increasingly digital society.
Collaborative Community: Collaboration with teachers, facilitators, and partners is essential.
Equity, Access, and Opportunity: Every student should have the opportunity to learn CS regardless of background.
Broad Impact: Creating sustainable change in education systems through policies, products, services, and partnerships.
Integrity and Transparency: Acting in the best interest of the student-focused mission.
Agility and Responsiveness: Acting quickly but thoughtfully and being responsive to feedback.

Code.org's Culture

Code.org's cultural principles include:

Students and Teachers are the North Star: Focus on bringing computer science to those who need it most.
Hard on Problems, Kind to Each Other: Stay focused on the challenge and give grace when mistakes are made.
Seek Solutions, Not Consensus: Own decisions and accept the decisions of owners, even if there is disagreement.
Founderâs Mentality: Obsess about outcomes, dive into the details, and be honest and agile.
Champion Innovation: Think big, take risks, and don't be afraid to fail.
Anchor Decisions in Facts: Use data to understand the business and guide decision-making.
Growth Mindset: Approach each challenge with curiosity and learn from mistakes.

Work-Life Balance and Benefits

Code.org cares about its employees and is dedicated to supporting everyone both at work and outside of work. They offer a holistic benefits package that includes health benefits, a flexible and supportive work environment, generous paid time off and leave plans, and growth and professional learning opportunities.

AI in Hiring

Code.org uses AI thoughtfully and responsibly to support human-centered hiring. AI may help with administrative tasks, but every hiring decision is made by real people on the team. They welcome candidates to use AI appropriately in their job search while upholding their values of honesty and integrity throughout the process.

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