FAQ
What class should my child take?
Our classes are generally divided by age and previous experience. Each programming language has multiple levels (e.g. Python has over 16 levels from Beginner to Advanced) and is further divided by age. For each specific age group recommendation please see the following:
We believe the best way to assess a students' readiness for a class is to take one of our many free trial classes.
If you have very specific questions about a class, don't hesitate to contact us
When are the semesters?
We have four semesters during the academic year, and one summer semester.
Fall: September - November
Winter 1: November - January
Winter 2: February - April
Spring: April - June
Summer: July & August
For more specific dates, contact us at info@penguincodingschool.com.
How often do classes meet?
Most in-person and online classes meet once weekly. Our semesters run for 8 weeks, so most classes have 8 sessions.
During the summer, we offer one weekday in-person day camps that meet Monday-Friday.
Summer online classes may meet bi-weekly. Bi-weekly classes run for 4 weeks instead of 8.
How long is each class?
Most classes are 60 minutes long. Some classes like robotics team and advanced coding classes for older students may be 90 minutes.
Do you pro-rate classes?
As a general rule, we don’t pro-rate classes because it doesn’t make sense to join a class mid-semester. The classes are designed as one continuous flow through the 8 weeks, and it cannot be taken piece-meal. The 8 week semester is designed to offer enough continuity but with the flexibility of dropping it at any point it no longer makes sense to continue (so you’re not locked into a year-long program).
What is your refund policy?
Semester Classes: We offer a full refund minus a 5% admin fee, up to 1 week before class begins.
Summer Camp: We offer a full refund minus $50 reservation fee until April 1st. 50% refund from April 2nd to June 15th. No refunds after June 15th.
Do you have homework?
For our Scratch classes we encourage students to experiment with various patterns they learn in class during the week. In Minecraft and Roblox classes, homework is about adding personal customizations to the project that they are working on. For these classes we believe the enthusiasm for the “project” is the most important aspect, and we get incredible effort from students who really become passionate about their project.
Our Python and Java classes do have weekly homework exercises and it complements the skills and concepts learned in the class. There are no grades, however, and we would only let parents know if there were consistent problems with attendance or completion.
What device/equipment do I need?
For in-person classes, we provide all devices and discourage students from bringing their own computer for software compatibility reasons.
For online classes, you need a laptop or desktop computer, NOT a tablet. Chromebooks, Windows, and Macs work for all classes besides Roblox, which can only run on Windows or Macs. We encourage you to have two devices; one for the zoom class and the other for coding on.
Do you offer after school pickup?
We offer after school pickup from certain local schools surrounding our Brooklyn locations.
Park Slope: PS 321, 10, 39, and 107
Cobble Hill: PS 261, 29, 58, 38, and 32
Pickup is available for 3:30 classes, and the cost is $85 for the whole semester.
How do parents get feedback on their children's performance or project?
We send out a student evaluation and recommendation email at the end of the semester. If there are any questions during the semester about how your student is doing, please email us at info@penguincodingschool.com can we will communicate to the teacher about your desire for feedback. We do not give out teachers' email or contact information as a rule.
What is your Tax ID number?
Massachusetts and Online Classes: 81-4116703
Brooklyn, NY classes: 86-2486169
How Can we Help?
Get full assistance. Never stay in a doubt. Our team is always ready to resolve your queries. Never delay to contact or chat with us.
Email us: info@penguincodingschool.com
Or call one of the local branches below:
Lexington, MA: 781-277-2755
Newton, MA: 617-608-4757
Acton, MA: 781-277-2956
Park Slope, Brooklyn: 347-620-9235
Cobble Hill, Brooklyn: 917-813-1007