The behind-the-scenes world of apps, games, and algorithms finally arrived at Beaver Area High School as coding class begins its inaugural year.

For those unfamiliar with the world of code, Mr. Jason Hank, the new course's teacher, can put it in simple terms.

"Code is the part of computers, apps, and games that you don’t see. It’s what makes those things work the way they do."

Knowing that, coding seems pretty important, so it’s no wonder that the school district saw the need to create the class.

"I was asked two years ago to teach a seventh grade rotation class [on coding], and then they asked if I could offer anything else after they [the seventh graders] got to eighth grade, so we created a semester class," explained Mr. Hank.

Since the new course is still fresh, it is currently open to anyone, middle school and high school, but as it continues, Mr. Hank hopes that eighth graders will take the class immediately after seventh grade coding, effectively making it a middle school-only class.

Students currently in the class had nothing but positive things to say about it.

"I’m really enjoying the class so far; it’s pretty fun," said eighth grader Eli Bechdel.

"Coding is something that I’ve always been interested in, so the class is really teaching us a lot," said sophomore Connor Martin.

Coding is a semester course, and Mr. Hank reports that both courses have just under 20 students each.

The class teaches Swift, a coding language developed by Apple, which is used in most apps found on their App Store.

At first, the class was held in the tech room, but later migrated to Room 107. The class meets during period 3.

Mr. Hank left the door wide open on whether or not there will be more coding classes.

"Anything’s possible: maybe there will be a Coding III class, I’m not sure."

Here's to the coders of tomorrow!