Houston Code Jam

About the Houston Community Code Jam

The Houston Community Code Jam, hosted by the Rice Center for STEM Engagement (R-STEM) in collaboration with WeTeach_CS Family Engagement Events, is a free, family-focused computer science event designed to introduce youth and families to coding through fun, hands-on activities.

Event Overview

This one-day event will feature 10 interactive computer science stations where youth and their families can explore coding, technology, and digital skills through engaging, hands-on activities. No prior computer science experience is required.

Families will have the opportunity to move through a variety of stations and participate in activities designed to make computer science accessible, creative, and fun. The event is supported by a customized WeTeach_CS toolkit and resources to help families engage in meaningful computer science experiences together.

FREE event, parents/gaurdians must accompany students at all times.

^{*Event times, activities, locations, and parking availability are subject to change before the event.}

Event Details

Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026 | 12:00–3:00 p.m.
Location: Harris County Department of Education | 6300 Irvington Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77022

Register here
Registration deadline: October 19, 2026

FREE event, parents/gaurdians must accompany students at all times.

Expectations:
- Free registration
- 10 hands-on computer science stations
- Activities designed for youth and families
- No prior computer science experience required

Computer Science Stations

Station 1 — Unplugged
Explore computer science concepts through hands-on activities without a computer.

Station 2 — Scratch Jr
Create interactive stories and animations using ScratchJr.

Station 3 — Scratch 1
Learn the basics of coding and build creative projects with Scratch.

Station 4 — Scratch 2
Continue exploring coding concepts and create more advanced Scratch projects.

Station 5 — Micro:bit
Use the BBC micro:bit to explore coding, electronics, and interactive technology.

Station 6 — MakeCode Arcade
Create and customize simple games while learning foundational coding concepts.

Station 7 — Micro:bit V2
Explore additional micro:bit features through hands-on coding and technology activities.

Station 8 — Digital Citizenship
Learn about responsible, safe, and positive participation in the digital world.

Station 9 — Python
Get an introduction to Python programming through an accessible, hands-on activity.

Station 10 — Unplugged 2
Explore additional computer science concepts through screen-free activities.

Attendee Information

Who Can Attend
The Houston Community Code Jam is open to families interested in exploring computer science together. Activities are designed to be engaging and accessible for youth and their families, with no prior coding experience required.

Parking
Free parking will be provided for the first 150 families. Additional parking support may be available through event sponsors.

Volunteers
Each station will be supported by 2–3 volunteers. Volunteers will arrive in the morning for training and event preparation.

Houston Community Code Jam Administration

If you have questions about the Houston Community Code Jam, please contact the event team.

Brandi West
Assistant Director for Secondary STEM Education
713-348-7926 | bw76@rice.edu

Christina Tapia
Assistant Director for Mathematics Education
713-348-3267 | ct121@rice.edu

^{*Event times, dates, locations, activities, and parking availability are subject to change before the event.}