What programs does GearMinds offer?
GearMinds provides robotics and coding courses, as well as opportunities for students to participate in robotics competitions.
Elementary Programs The elementary pathway programs are designed to offer an engaging introduction to coding and robotics for young students. Students will acquire hands-on experience in block-based programming and robotics by actively engaging with educational robots.
Middle School Programs The middle school pathway programs ensure that students progress from block-based coding to text-based coding. Students gain programming knowledge and knowledge in basic electronics to create projects that resemble real-world applications.
High School Programs The high school programs aim to provide students with advanced computational thinking skills and proficiency in Python and Java programming languages, which enable them to develop data-driven applications and nurture their passion for Computer Science.
Robotics Competitions GearMinds provides coaching for FIRST LEGO League Challenge and FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC). Priority is given to students who have been with GearMinds. The practice lasts for 24 weeks.
How can I sign up for the GearMinds courses?
Please reach out to us at (469) 290-4561 or email us at contactus@gearmindsacademy.com to arrange a tour of our center. Our course coordinator will give you all the information you need about our courses and teaching approach. Additionally, you can choose to sign up for the course online through our website.
What sets GearMinds classes apart from others?
We offer students hands-on challenges aimed at improving their problem-solving skills. After being introduced to key concepts, students work together in groups with the support of our experienced instructors. Using educational robots, we help young learners develop essential coding skills without requiring memorization. This method adds excitement to learning, creating more engaging and memorable classroom experiences.
Can coding improve academic performance?
Absolutely! Coding helps children develop critical, analytical, and logical thinking skills by exploring different ways to solve problems. It also teaches them to follow instructions, plan, and think more efficiently. Additionally, coding improves their understanding of music, arts, and creative thinking, which contributes to overall cognitive development. In simple terms, children are not just learning to code, they are using coding to learn.
My child has some knowledge of coding. Where should they begin?
Excellent! With a wide range of classes available and abundant online resources, many students come in with prior experience. Our coordinators can discuss and recommend a suitable starting level for your child.
Are there any competition opportunities available?
Every year, FIRST® LEGO® League releases a new challenge based on a real-world scientific theme. The GearMinds teams have been participating in the competition since 2021. They have won awards at the qualifier and regional levels and placed in the top 15 at the Texas State Championship. Team selections for the 2024-25 season are currently underway.
How do I choose the right course for my child from the numerous options available?
Our course coordinator will recommend options based on your child’s interests and experience. Our priority is to start students in a course that they will enjoy and that will also provide the right amount of challenge for them.
What’s your Public holiday policy?
We are closed on public holidays. Classes scheduled for these days will be moved to a day that fits the student’s schedules.
2024 Holidays
New Year’s Day – January 1, Monday
Memorial Day – May 27, Monday
Independence Day – July 4, Thursday
Labor Day – September 2, Monday
Thanksgiving – November 26-29, Tuesday – Friday
Christmas – December 24 – 31
What is the policy for makeup classes if a student misses a class?
We allow students to have up to 2 make-up classes during the course, with no more than one make-up class a month. If a student can’t attend a class, their parent must email contactus@gearmindsacademy.com at least 1 day before, explaining the absence. Make-up classes can only be scheduled within a paid month.
Do you offer sibling discounts?
Yes, GearMinds offers a 5% discount on tuition for the second and subsequent siblings enrolled in the programs during the same time frame.
Who will teach my children?
We carefully select and train instructors with experience in computer science and engineering. They are passionate about sharing their knowledge and expertise with children and are dedicated to nurturing a love for learning and innovation among young minds.