Free coding class geared for students in grades 7-8 offered beginning Tuesday at HLGU

HANNIBAL, Mo. — A program will offer free computer coding league for local seventh and eighth grade students through a collaboration with the city of Hannibal, Hannibal Area Chamber of Commerce, Hannibal Regional Economic Development Council and Hannibal-LaGrange University.

The class will meet from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays starting Sept. 10 in Room 109 of the Partee Building at HLGU. All equipment is provided. Participants will earn prizes such as gadgets, earbuds and cash.

The class is free but limited to 15 spots. Register at www. forms.gle/14G76Axj1KxkCB4D8

Hannibal Free Public Library Director Caitlin Greathouse said the class will include different coding assignments, ranging from gaming to fashion design, music and more. The students work each week on different projects and a group project at the end of the season.

In a press release, Greathouse said, “We are starting off this project hosting one age group, seventh and eighth graders, but will expand to two groups next time to include fifth and sixth graders. This has been a collaboration of many area organizations. We hope this project will continue for several seasons to come.”

Greathouse added that coding is an excellent way to learn soft skills like creativity, confidence and communication, skills that are hugely important for kids to thrive in the future. Studies show that kids who learn to code improve academic performances in math, writing and creativity.

Contact Greathouse for more information at 573-221-0222.