About Code Zero | Code Zero is our district’s advanced computer science and robotics learning experience, offered as a specialized component of the Monroe Township School District’s enrichment services. Designed in the spirit of MTSD’s commitment to nurturing curiosity, creativity, and deep exploration, Code Zero provides advanced learners the opportunity to engage in rigorous, hands-on instruction. Using VEX Robotics, Project Lead The Way (PLTW) frameworks, and industry-standard coding languages, students move beyond traditional classroom instruction to solve complex, real-world problems.

Certified district educators design and facilitate our modules, which align directly with the district’s curricular and cocurricular STEM and robotics programs. There is no cost to participate in Code Zero.

The Code Zero Mindset | Success in Code Zero requires more than just technical aptitude; it requires profound resilience. In alignment with our district's overarching enrichment philosophy, Code Zero fosters a growth mindset through "productive struggle." Students work collaboratively in teams to navigate design paths, build prototypes, and tackle complex programming challenges.

We challenge our students to embrace the "Learn It All" shift and treat failure as valuable data (F.A.I.L. First Attempt In Learning). Whether debugging lines of code or re-engineering a mechanism after a design constraint, perseverance and a willingness to try, fail, and try again are the most important skills our coders develop.

Program Structure

• Grade 5 (Foundational Year): Students engage with the PLTW Robotics Module. This vital learning year is dedicated to building strong core skills in programming, engineering, and teamwork, preparing students for future robotics integration.
• Grade 6: Students continue to build upon their foundational skills, taking on more complex coding logic and deeper mechanical engineering concepts.
• Grades 7 & 8: Students tackle bigger builds and bigger challenges. At this level, students also have the opportunity to test into the highly competitive robotics team.

Admissions & Selection Criteria | In accordance with our district’s responsibilities as referenced in N.J.A.C 6A:8-3.1, all programs designated as gifted and talented utilize multiple data measures for selection criteria. To ensure program size is appropriate and instructional efficacy is consistently maximized, students must reapply for admission to Code Zero every year.

The evaluation process consists of two distinct phases based on grade level:

Grade 5 Admissions:

• Phase One (Prequalification): Students must achieve at or above the 80th percentile on the Spring ELA & Math MAP assessments.
• Phase Two (Screening): Prequalified students who declare intent will participate in a hands-on skills evaluation conducted during the regular school day.

Grades 6-8 Admissions:

• Phase One (Prequalification): Students must achieve at or above the 90th percentile on the Spring ELA & Math MAP assessments.
• Phase Two (Screening): Prequalified students who declare intent will participate in a hands-on skills evaluation conducted after school at Monroe Township High School with a team of district staff.

(Please note: Prequalification, participation in Phase Two screening, and participation in the program during the prior year do not guarantee placement into the program. Final decisions are made after all evaluations are complete.)

Inquiries

Zachary Morolda

Director | Innovative & Community Programs, Equity & Careers Technology