The Bronx, home to over 1.4 million people, is a borough rich in culture and diversity. However, many children in the Bronx face significant barriers to accessing quality educational resources, particularly in technology and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). According to the American Community Survey, nearly 30% of residents live below the poverty line, and this economic hardship is reflected in the educational resources available to young people. While traditional education is available, opportunities for coding and robotics, which are critical for future success in tech-driven industries, are limited in the borough.
In fact, a report by the Bronx Collaborative for Education and Innovation reveals that only 25% of public schools in the Bronx offer extracurricular activities in STEM fields, and even fewer provide access to robotics or coding programs. This digital divide places children at a disadvantage, preventing them from gaining the essential skills needed to pursue tech careers. Nationwide, 79% of future jobs will require digital skills, yet many Bronx students are being left behind in this area, making it harder for them to compete in a rapidly evolving workforce.
This lack of access disproportionately affects children from underserved communities, particularly young women and students of color. Data from the National Science Foundation shows that Black and Latino children make up just 14% of the tech workforce, and young women, especially girls of color, are even more underrepresented. Without exposure to coding and robotics, these students miss out on opportunities to bridge the gender and racial gaps that exist in tech industries. Early access to STEM education has been shown to increase interest in these fields, making it essential to reach kids at a young age.
At CodeBot Academy, we’re committed to changing this narrative. By offering free coding and robotics classes to children in the Bronx, we aim to provide the skills and resources necessary for future success. We started in the Bronx, but our programs have now expanded online to reach even more students. Through hands-on learning, we foster creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork, while providing the foundational skills needed for a tech-driven future.
However, the need for tech education goes beyond one organization. Community involvement, government funding, and partnerships with local schools and businesses are essential for creating a more equitable educational system. According to The 2023 NYC School Survey, 58% of Bronx students reported lacking access to the technology and resources needed for learning. To close this gap, we need collective action to ensure that every child, regardless of background, has access to the education that will shape their future.
The time to act is now. By investing in technology education for Bronx children, we can help break the cycle of poverty and equip the next generation with the skills they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.