JeanAlbert Arnold’s path to becoming an educator at CodeWizardsHQ is a story of rediscovering passion, embracing lifelong learning, and finding joy in teaching. JeanAlbert has explored numerous professions, each time bringing a spirit of curiosity and a drive for innovation. Reflecting on his journey, he shares, “I’ve had other hobbies and passions in my life, but coding always comes back.” His coding journey began with a Tandy Computer.
Discovering Coding
JeanAlbert’s coding adventure began unexpectedly when his mother brought home what she thought was a game system. It was actually a Tandy Color Computer from Radio Shack. The confusion quickly turned into a defining moment for JeanAlbert. “My brothers and sisters quickly realized, ‘No, this is not the Atari we wanted.’ So they handed it to me, and it had the Tandy manual on how to program in BASIC. From the first time I got a program running, I wanted to do this for the rest of my life.” This early experience lit a spark in JeanAlbert, setting him on a path that would shape his career and personal interests profoundly.
With limited coding education opportunities, JeanAlbert was initially self-taught using library books. Then he and his dad found an evening class at the local high school. Much to their surprise, the class was comprised of only adults except for an eleven-year-old JeanAlbert. The quick learner soon found himself helping the adults with their programming projects. “By the time I was 16, I came back, and I was teaching those classes, the same classes I took years earlier.”
A Diverse Career Path
JeanAlbert navigated a unique career path, often merging his knack for technology with practical skills. His work history includes jobs where he applied his technical acumen to fix everything from intricate cameras to sophisticated sewing machines. This experience not only honed his problem-solving skills but also deepened his understanding of how things work—knowledge he brings to his coding classes. Each role he took on reinforced his passion for technology.
After a hiatus of over two decades from professional coding, he found his way back to his first love with a teaching position at CodeWizardsHQ. “Coming back to coding was like coming home. I didn’t realize how much I missed it until I started teaching these kids. Every class is a reminder of why I started in the first place,” JeanAlbert shares.
Instructing at CodeWizardsHQ
JeanAlbert has been teaching at CodeWizardsHQ for almost a year, and during that time he has taught all levels: elementary, middle, and high school students. He shared that he enjoys teaching each age group. He appreciates elementary classes for their foundational impact, enjoying the process of guiding young minds through their initial steps in coding and watching their enthusiasm and creativity unfold. With high school students, he values the opportunity to engage with their advanced thinking and their ability to challenge programming norms. “I love the high school students because I can see how far they’ve come and how they’ve lost that fear.” JeanAlbert finds joy in witnessing students’ “aha” moments and their development from curious beginners to skilled young coders.
JeanAlbert’s teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that learning should be an engaging, interactive process. He often emphasizes the importance of making classes energetic and dynamic, particularly enjoying the curiosity and enthusiasm of his students. He believes in the power of not just teaching coding skills but also instilling confidence and resilience in his students. Reflecting on his approach, he encourages his students and peers with a simple mantra: “Just don’t be afraid to try. Just do it.” This philosophy underpins his teaching style, focusing on encouragement, practical problem-solving, and nurturing a genuine interest in learning among his students.
JeanAlbert advises parents whose kids might have that spark of coding to jump in and give it a try. “I tell them to follow their child’s curiosity and keep them challenged. Whether a student goes into coding or not, it will teach skills that will help them all across the board.” JeanAlbert has some specific insight about CodeWizardsHQ.
“This is the most incredible project I’ve ever been a part of. CodeWizards makes coding approachable and fun for the kids. I not only teach students the technical skills, but they also learn problem solving, creativity, and they most importantly learn confidence.”
Life Outside of Coding
JeanAlbert doesn’t just teach at CodeWizardsHQ; he and his wife also homeschool their 14-year-old daughter. JeanAlbert’s teaching focus is on math and science, with chemistry being a significant topic this year. This approach ensures she receives a comprehensive education in essential subjects. By teaching her at home, JeanAlbert actively shapes her academic growth and lays a solid foundation in crucial educational fields.
JeanAlbert is a lifelong learner and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in computer science at BYU Idaho. His educational journey won’t stop there; he’s especially keen on blending his interest in philosophy with technology. With an eye towards the future, he is considering pursuing a PhD, further deepening his understanding and expertise in the field.
His life outside the classroom is as rich and varied as his career path. JeanAlbert manages a small farm that he calls a “farmette,” and exclaimed that “We got our first chicken egg this morning, and we’re planning to add a couple of goats to our little farm soon!” Other hobbies range from mushroom foraging to solving complex puzzles. He engages in painting and creative writing as well. He and his wife also recently welcomed two playful puppies, Gizmo and Luna, to their household.
Teaching Impact
JeanAlbert Arnold’s story is a vivid illustration of how diverse experiences can enrich teaching and provide a robust foundation for encouraging the next generation of learners. Through his work at CodeWizardsHQ, he not only teaches coding but also imparts life lessons on resilience, creativity, and the lifelong joy of discovery. As we look at his career and his philosophy, it’s clear that JeanAlbert is not just teaching code; he’s preparing young minds to meet the world with confidence and curiosity.
