The CODERS initiative—Computer Science Opportunities, Development, and Education in Rural Schools—at Missouri State University in Springfield is transforming what’s possible in rural classrooms. Powered by funding from the U.S. Department of Education’s Innovation & Research program, CODERS is giving teachers the tools, training, and confidence to bring computer science to life for their students—no matter how remote their school may be.
Since launching in 2021, the program has partnered with more than 60 educators and impacted over 3,500 students across rural Missouri. The mission is simple but powerful: close the digital divide and open doors to future-ready careers.
At the center of CODERS is a deep investment in teachers. Educators receive full classroom sets of cutting-edge coding tools paired with hands-on professional learning. Through immersive summer workshops, teachers explore creative, inquiry-driven strategies to weave coding into everyday lessons—whether in math, science, music, or even language arts.
The excitement is contagious.
As Jen Sandvos, a five-year CODERS veteran and STEAM teacher, explains, “The moment Micro:bits and Cutebots are part of a lesson, everything changes. Even the driest content suddenly comes to life—students are completely engaged and locked in. I’ve used Cutebots across literacy, science, and coding lessons, and every time, their excitement and focus reach a whole new level.”
The impact goes far beyond engagement. Schools involved in CODERS are seeing measurable gains—a 42% boost in science proficiency, a 10% increase in math performance, and a noticeable rise in student confidence and interest in STEM pathways. What makes CODERS stand out is its collaborative, interdisciplinary approach. Backed by experts in education, computer science, and the arts, the program proves that coding isn’t just a subject—it’s a powerful tool for learning across all disciplines.
Ready to bring this energy to your classroom? Spots are still available for the summer launch at Missouri State University this summer, June 2–4. For information about joining CODERS or registering for an upcoming workshop, contact Dr. Keri Franklin.
