Business & Tech

Essex County Couple Open Computer Coding School In Montclair

The Montclair school's operators said they were introduced to theCoderSchool when their son began taking classes at the Short Hills location

“Learn to code. Change the world.” That’s the motto of theCoderSchool, which is opening a new location in Montclair, NJ.
“Learn to code. Change the world.” That’s the motto of theCoderSchool, which is opening a new location in Montclair, NJ. (Photo: theCoderSchool)

MONTCLAIR, NJ — “Learn to code. Change the world.” That’s the motto of theCoderSchool, which is opening a new location in Montclair.

Like other theCoderSchool locations, the Montclair school will cater to children ages 7 to 18. It will be located at 51 Upper Montclair Plaza, and is set to open in late January for in-person and virtual classes (learn more here).

The Montclair school’s owners and operators, Nicole Xu and Jonathan To of Essex Fells, said they were introduced to the after-school program when their son began taking classes at theCoderSchool’s Short Hills location.

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Xu and To said they were impressed with the classes improved their child’s computer skills, while also giving him a fun social activity to look forward to.

“We love Montclair and how it is such a charming, diverse and historical town,” Xu said. “Our son goes to school in Montclair, and we met many parents who are as passionate about their child’s education as we are.”

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“We’re excited about bring theCoderSchool to the community, and cannot wait to safely open our doors,” Xu added.

The pair bring a wealth of relevant experience to their new business. Xu founded New Jersey Piano City in 2011 after years as a marketing professional for multiple tech and financial firms. In addition to managing piano distribution, she also ran a well-renowned music academy where she developed an appreciation for the countless ways children learn.

Meanwhile, To has 15 years of experience in database and project management, and is currently a data team lead at Haver Analytics.

According to the couple, TheCoderSchool Montclair plans to work with local schools to enhance STEM projects and offer scholarships to aspiring future coders and rising “code coaches.”

“We are thrilled to have Jonathan and Nicole join theCoderSchool family and expand the brand’s presence in New Jersey,” founder Hansel Lynn said. “I have no doubt they will do a great job bringing coding to the Montclair community, because they have such proficient experience teaching and within the tech industry.”

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