2025 Annual Report: A way in, wherever you start

In 2025, Mission Bit expanded in-school programs, deepened instructor-led learning, and introduced thousands of Bay Area students to computer science and artificial intelligence — all at no cost to families.

Support our 2026 vision

Portrait of a Mission Bit student participant in the nonprofit’s computer science education programs.

Andrea M. | Intro to Virtual Reality student

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Portrait of a Mission Bit student representing participants in the nonprofit’s coding and technology education programs.

Uriel F. | Intro to Virtual Reality student

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Portrait of a Mission Bit student participating in the organization’s computer science education programs for Bay Area youth.

Scarlet C. | Intro to Web Design & Intro to Python student

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The challenge

In the tech capital of the world, access to equitable computer science education is still far from guaranteed.

California is home to Silicon Valley — and some of the widest computer science opportunity gaps in the country. Only 31% of schools serving low-income students offer CS, versus 69% of higher-income schools. Even when classes exist, enrollment sits at just 5.3% statewide (State of AI + CS Education, 2025). Mission Bit’s classrooms are where that changes. In 2025, 97% of our students were youth of color — the communities most consistently locked out of computer science education and careers in tech.

As artificial intelligence reshapes how we learn, work, and build the future, these disparities grow more urgent. Without early exposure, students are often locked out of opportunity before they even realize what’s possible, especially those from underserved communities.

Mission Bit works to expand access by providing free, project-based computer science and AI education during and after school, centering students historically excluded from tech pathways.

Mission Bit student presenting a project at a 2025 Demo Day, where students showcase their capstone projects.

About Mission Bit

Our mission

Mission Bit inspires youth to explore the world of STEM with project-based computer science education that embraces their identities.

Our vision

Through culturally responsive instruction, paid professional educators, and strong community partnerships, we make tech education accessible, human, and empowering — not intimidating.

Portrait of Mission Bit CEO wearing glasses and a blue denim jacket, smiling.

A message from our CEO

Dear Mission Bit community,

Growth is often celebrated as a sign of success. At Mission Bit, it is also a signal of something deeper. It reflects a gap that still hasn’t been closed, and the need for computer science education continues to grow.

In 2025, we served 2,740 students, a 29% increase from 2024. This continues a pattern we’ve seen year after year: consistent, meaningful growth driven not by trend, but by demand. More students are seeking access to computer science, more schools are asking for support, and more communities are recognizing that digital literacy is no longer optional.

These numbers tell a story. But what matters even more is why they continue to rise.

For too many students, especially those attending schools with limited or no computer science offerings, opportunity still depends on what their school can offer. In the tech capital of the world, we still have a lot of work to do.

This year marked a turning point. We launched our first-ever in-school, accredited computer science courses at high schools with little to no existing CS offerings. By bringing instruction directly into the school day, we are reaching students who might not otherwise have the opportunity to learn computer science. This approach reflects our commitment to meeting students where they are and expanding access in meaningful, practical ways.

What hasn’t changed is what drives us: we believe every student deserves the chance to see themself as a creator of technology, not just a consumer. As AI reshapes how we learn, work, and build the future, that belief feels more urgent than ever.

None of this would be possible without our community. I’m deeply proud of what our students accomplished this year, and I’m grateful for everyone who makes it possible. To our instructors, staff, volunteers, Board, school partners, and donors: thank you. Your support keeps our programs free, helps us respond to growing demand, and opens doors students will walk through for the rest of their lives.

With gratitude,

Christina N. Ortega

Our values

Our impact

In 2025, our community continued to grow — reaching more students, expanding in-school access, and deepening our focus on AI literacy.

Graph showing Mission Bit's student served growth

 

2,740 students served in 2025

A record year of students discovering computer science through Mission Bit programs.

97% youth of color

Mission Bit programs primarily serve youth from communities historically underrepresented in tech.

1,128 students explored AI through hands-on workshops

Students built early AI literacy through hands-on workshops and projects.

78% of Alumni Network studying STEM fields

Most Mission Bit alumni go on to study science, technology, engineering, or math after high school.

Our programs

There’s no single path into technology. At Mission Bit, students enter at different points: after school, during the school day, through a workshop, or as a returning alum ready to mentor others. Wherever they start, they experience the same foundation: hands-on learning, real instructors, and a community that believes they belong in tech.

But even when computer science courses are available, participation remains uneven. Black, Latinx, and Native American students make up about 60% of California’s high school population but only 16% of AP Computer Science A test-takers, and young men account for roughly two-thirds of students enrolled in advanced computer science courses (Computer Science in California’s Schools, 2019; State of AI + CS Education, 2025). Students from historically underrepresented communities — particularly students of color and girls — remain significantly underrepresented in advanced computer science pathways.

Mission Bit’s programs are designed to address these disparities by creating welcoming entry points and supportive learning environments for students who have historically been excluded from tech pathways.

Our programs form one connected ecosystem, designed to meet students where they are and grow with them.

Explore Code Academy

 

In our Explore Code Academy (ECA), students learn computer science by building: coding in Python, designing websites, developing games in Unity, and creating VR experiences with AI-powered tools.

For many students, ECA is their first introduction to computer science. Courses are beginner-friendly and project-based, giving students the chance to apply new concepts right away and build their own projects.

In 2025, AI tools were integrated across courses, from foundational logic in Python to design principles behind AI-powered web interfaces and immersive experiences in Unity. In web design units, students also experiment with tools like Adobe Express to generate visual concepts and iterate on their ideas, helping them explore creative possibilities while learning how AI-assisted design works.

Small class sizes and dedicated instructors ensure every student receives personalized support. By the end of each course, students leave with new skills, completed projects, and the confidence to keep learning.

 

Program highlights

88% course completion rate

Students stayed engaged and committed, with nearly nine in ten successfully completing their course.

95% felt Mission Bit is an inclusive community

Students learn in spaces where they feel safe, supported, and like they truly belong.

91% of students found the curriculum fun and engaging

Hands-on, project-based learning keeps students curious, creative, and excited to show up.

98% of students would recommend Mission Bit

Nearly every student said they would encourage a friend to join — a testament to the strength of our classrooms and community.

Digital Innovation Academy

 

Not every student can stay after school. Through Digital Innovation Academy (DIA), Mission Bit partners with the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) to bring computer science directly into the school day through credit-bearing classes taught by Mission Bit instructors.

In 2025, Mission Bit partnered with 3 SFUSD schools to expand computer science learning during the school day, helping schools introduce or strengthen credit-bearing computer science courses through instructor support and curriculum.

Students learn coding fundamentals, computational thinking, and AI literacy as part of their regular schedule — ensuring access to emerging technologies regardless of after-school jobs, transportation challenges, or caregiving responsibilities.

 

Program highlights

140 students served through DIA

Bringing Mission Bit’s computer science classes directly into the school day.

Credit-bearing, accredited coursework

Students earn high school credit while building real-world coding and technology skills.

8 classes across 3 SFUSD schools

Partnering with John O’Connell High School, June Jordan School for Equity, and San Francisco International High School to expand access on campus.

Removing barriers to participation

Embedding classes into the school schedule ensures students can learn regardless of after-school jobs, caregiving, or transportation challenges.

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Success Stories

Real stories from ECA & DIA students

Read about how Mission Bit’s programs are shaping futures in tech. Check out more student stories here!

Luis S. | Web Design alum

“Another reason I joined Mission Bit was the laptop loan program because without it, I wouldn’t have been able to participate since I didn’t have a computer. I really appreciate that Mission Bit made the program accessible to everyone, regardless of their resources.”

Mission Bit student wearing glasses and headphones outdoors, representing participants in the organization’s coding and computer science education programs.

Izzy H. | Intro to Python alum

“Mission Bit has provided me with the confidence and tools to be able to take on coding. Mission Bit provided me with a positive community as well, that encouraged learning and improvement from one another. The teachers all supported my journey and were understanding and receptive to any questions or concerns I had.”

Portrait of a Mission Bit student participating in the nonprofit’s computer science education programs for Bay Area youth.

Wrenn H. | Web Design alum

“One of my favorite memories at Mission Bit has been presenting. It’s a lot of fun to talk about the project that I spent four weeks on, and I think it’s a great opportunity to practice public speaking.”

Mission Bit student attending Demo Day, where students present coding and computer science projects after completing their courses.

Instructor program

 

Across all of our programs, instructor-led learning is at the heart of Mission Bit.

Our classes are led by live, paid instructors trained in both technical skills and culturally sustaining teaching. They serve as mentors and role models, building trust, encouraging curiosity, and creating classrooms where students feel safe to learn and experiment.

This human-centered, instructor-led approach keeps students engaged and supported from day one.

For many students, seeing someone who shares their background or experiences teaching computer science can make a powerful difference. Representation in the classroom helps students imagine themselves in the field and feel confident that they belong.

Mission Bit intentionally builds teaching teams that reflect the diversity of the students we serve. In 2025, 75% of Mission Bit ECA and DIA instructors identified as people of color and 76% identified as women or nonbinary, helping students imagine themselves not just learning technology, but shaping it.

 

Program highlights

75% of instructors are people of color

Our teaching team reflects the diversity of the students we serve, fostering belonging and representation in every classroom.

76% identify as women or nonbinary

We continue expanding who leads and belongs in tech education.

62% returned to teach multiple classes

Returning instructors bring experience, consistency, and lasting relationships that strengthen student learning.

Instructors include alumni and former volunteers

Many educators began as Mission Bit students or volunteers — building a full-circle community of mentorship and leadership.

Success Stories

 

Real stories from Mission Bit instructors

Read about how Mission Bit teachers are empowering the next generation of tech leaders.

Lisa J. | Mission Bit instructor

“Not only do [students] gain extraordinary levels of optimism for what they can achieve in the future, but we as instructors feel more and more inspired to continue to educate underserved youth. They are so often overlooked, but so imperative and capable of improving the future.”

Mission Bit instructor speaking into a microphone during Demo Day, an event where students present their computer science projects.

Stephane S. | Mission Bit instructor

“The curriculum team created innovative lessons and programming activities, bringing relevant tech education to the high school level. It’s been a unique experience collaborating with the community of educators and witnessing their efforts to set a foundation for the children to succeed.”

 

Mission Bit instructor speaking at our 9th Annual Gala Fundraiser about expanding access to computer science education for Bay Area students.

Rebecca C. | Mission Bit instructor

“I’m so proud to have been a part of this program, teaching students who otherwise may not have access to computer science education. They continue to surprise and impress me, and it’s a reminder that even when things are challenging, there is an important impact to the work we are doing. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to see these students learn and gain confidence in their skills and am excited to see this program evolve.”

Mission Bit instructor supporting students through instructor-led computer science education programs in the Bay Area.

Student Ambassador Board

 

Mission Bit’s Student Ambassadors don’t just take classes — they help lead the community.

As peer mentors, organizers, and representatives, Ambassadors serve as the bridge between their schools and Mission Bit, ensuring student voices shape the programs they’re part of. From leading workshops and supporting events to hosting conferences and hackathons, they step into real leadership roles that build confidence, communication skills, and a sense of ownership.

Through the Student Ambassador Board, young people aren’t just learning about tech — they’re learning how to lead within it.

 

Program highlights

20 students served as Ambassadors in 2025

Youth leaders stepped into mentorship, organizing, and community-building roles across Mission Bit programs.

Representation from 8 San Francisco schools

Ambassadors connected Mission Bit to new campuses and built partnerships with teachers and staff.

17 student-organized workshops reaching 385+ peers

Ambassadors booked, planned, and facilitated hands-on workshops — expanding access to computer science in their own school communities.

Student voices shaping Mission Bit’s future

Ambassadors presented projects at Mission Bit’s Annual Gala Fundraiser, participated in program planning, and helped inform new course offerings for Explore Code Academy.

Alumni Network

 

Mission Bit’s impact doesn’t end when a class does.

Alumni remain part of our community long after graduation, continuing their education, exploring careers in tech, and returning as mentors, volunteers, and leaders. Through networking events, workshops, and ongoing support, we help students navigate the transition from high school to college and beyond.

What begins as a first coding class often becomes a long-term pathway into STEM — and a lifelong connection to Mission Bit.

 

Program highlights

78% of alumni studying STEM fields

Most Mission Bit alumni continue their education in science, technology, engineering, or math after high school.

Pathways into college, internships, and tech careers

Alumni continue securing competitive opportunities that build momentum toward long-term careers in technology.

Exclusive industry networking opportunities

Alumni connected with professionals through career events at companies like LinkedIn and Strava, gaining insight into internships, job pathways, and careers across the tech industry.

Giving back to the Mission Bit community

Former students returned as volunteers and mentors, supporting current learners and strengthening our full-circle community.

Success Stories

 

Real stories from SAB Ambassadors & Alumni

Read about how Mission Bit is shaping futures.

Daniel S. | Mission Bit Student Ambassador

“My favorite memory with Mission Bit was how our class did the icebreakers in virtual classes. It really got me to join in and discuss with the class and participate. The Mission Bit experience has taught me many things about tech and the many different things I can do with it. It has also taught me how to stay resilient when making mistakes and generally has made a great impact on my life.”

Mission Bit student ambassador representing the organization’s computer science education programs for Bay Area youth.

Vanessa L. | Mission Bit alum

“Mission Bit has given me the confidence and resources to explore opportunities in the tech industry. It has provided me with valuable skills, networking opportunities, and mentorship that will help shape my career. Connecting with a mentor was especially meaningful, as it gave me insights and guidance that I wouldn’t have had otherwise.”

Mission Bit alum, who participated in the organization’s coding and technology education programs.

Camille C. | Mission Bit Student Ambassador

“Before joining Mission Bit, I lacked guidance within my coding journey. Mission Bit not only provided me with the foundational knowledge needed to code in Python, but also made me feel like part of a community. Since joining Mission Bit, my passion for coding and civic engagement has grown exponentially.”

Student ambassador presenting during Mission Bit Demo Day, where students showcase coding and technology projects.

Additional programs driving change

Workshops

For many students, a Mission Bit workshop is their very first experience with computer science.

These 90-minute, beginner-friendly sessions are delivered directly at school sites and community organizations — prioritizing campuses with limited or no tech offerings. By meeting students where they already are, workshops lower the barrier to entry and create an approachable first step into coding, AI, and creative technology.

Designed to be hands-on and project-based, each workshop focuses on sparking curiosity and confidence — helping students see themselves in tech from day one.

Highlights
  • 1,834 students reached through 87 workshops
    • Hands-on sessions introduced coding, AI, and creative technology to first-time learners.
  • 2,983 hours of instruction delivered
    • Sustained, project-based learning experiences designed to build confidence and curiosity.
  • Delivered directly at schools and community sites
    • Meeting students where they already are — especially campuses with limited or no computer science offerings.
  • Career-connected learning opportunities
    • Workshops and alumni events, including a session hosted with LinkedIn, exposed students to real-world tech pathways and mentors.
Tech Start

Tech Start supports young adults ages 18-26 who are exploring pathways into the tech workforce.

Through a two-week, career-focused experience, participants build professional skills, learn how tech companies operate, and receive mentorship from industry professionals. The program is designed to bridge the gap between interest and opportunity — equipping students with the tools and confidence to pursue roles in tech.

Key skills students develop
  • Financial literacy fundamentals — Building practical money management skills for real-world independence
  • Tech industry knowledge — Understanding career pathways, roles, and how products move from idea to launch
  • Resume development — Crafting strong, competitive resumes that highlight skills and experience
  • Interview readiness — Gaining confidence, communication skills, and professional presence
  • Mentorship and career guidance — Connecting with industry professionals through mentor matching sessions and one-on-one conversations about navigating careers in tech
Code Your Way

Code Your Way offers a flexible, self-paced pathway for students who need learning options that fit around work, family, or other responsibilities.

Through online modules, project-based curriculum, and mentorship from volunteers and industry professionals, students can build coding skills on their own schedule while staying connected to a supportive community.

By removing time and access barriers, Code Your Way ensures that even the busiest students can participate in computer science education.

What makes this program unique
  • Self-paced learning, anytime and anywhere
  • Flexible and inclusive design for busy schedules
  • 1:1 mentorship and real-world connections
  • Hands-on projects that build practical skills
  • Ongoing peer and instructor support

Events

Beyond the classroom, Mission Bit connects students to the broader tech ecosystem through field trips, laptop giveaways, and community-led experiences.

From visiting local tech companies to receiving the tools they need for college and careers, these events provide both inspiration and tangible support — helping students imagine and prepare for their futures in technology.

Many of these experiences are student-led, with our Student Ambassador Board organizing initiatives that center equity, access, and youth voice.

Highlights
  • 121 laptops donated to students
    • Providing essential tools to support learning, college readiness, and continued access to technology.
  • 335 students attended field trips and career talks
    • Connecting young people directly with professionals and real-world pathways into tech.
  • Visits to companies like Playstation, Dropbox, and Strava
    • Giving students firsthand exposure to workplaces shaping the future of technology.
  • 3 community Demo Days hosted
    • Students showcased their capstone projects to families, peers, and partners — celebrating their growth as creators and innovators.

Revenue

 

Our partners

Mission Bit works alongside corporate partners, foundations, and schools to expand meaningful access to computer science education. In 2025, our partners opened their offices for field trips, hosted career readiness events, supported student showcases, and invested in the growth of our in-school and after-school programs.

Together, we delivered workshops, semester-long courses, and AI learning experiences across the Bay Area — ensuring more students had the opportunity to explore technology firsthand.

1Password
Adobe
Andreessen Horowitz (a16z)
Anthem
AT&T
Balboa High School
CalEdAssist
Comcast
Community Youth Center of San Francisco (CYC)
Crankstart
Dell Technologies
Dream Opportunity
Dropbox
Electronic Arts
Enterprise for Youth
Figma

Future Stars
Galileo High School
George Washington High School
GitHub
Google.org
Hellman Foundation
Horizons
Imagineers AI
John O’Connell High School
JP Morgan Chase
June Jordan School for Equity
Langendorf Foundation
Libertas Travel
LinkedIn

Meta
Mission Graduates
Mission High School
Notion
Oasis for Girls
Opportunities for All
Phillip and Sala Burton Academic High School
Pinterest
Recirqt
Ross Foundation
San Francisco Education Fund
San Francisco Office of Economic & Workforce Development

San Francisco Unified School District
Sand Hill Angels
Sigma Computing
Skydio
Snap Inc.
Sony PlayStation
Thurgood Marshall High School
Umpqua Bank
Unity
Verizon
Warriors Foundation
Waymo
Western Governors University
Wilson Sonsini
Zoox

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Our team

Core staff

Aimee Little-Sanchez, Chief Finance Officer
Alex Mora, Director of Programs
Christina Ortega, Chief Executive Officer
Cora Monokandilos, Chief Product Officer
Cynthia Chin, Chief Operating Officer
Ellen Zhou, Hiring and Office Coordinator
Itzel Gil, Sr. Program Coordinator
Jaedon Lee, Curriculum Developer
Jessica Doan, Summer Program Assistant
Jessica Vallan, Social Media Intern
Johnny Lin, Development Associate
Morgan Maxwell, Education Program Assistant
Rachel Scales, Director of Education
Tatiana Sanchez, Communications Intern
Tiffany Ian, Summer Program Assistant
Ver Pasamic, Curriculum Developer

Board of Directors

Alex Peng, Board Secretary, Technical Staff at xAI, Mission Bit Alum
Anthony Liatsis, CTO & Co-Founder at CreditIQ
Beth Anderson, President at Anthem Blue Cross
Bob Ippolito, Board Chairman, Entrepreneur
Brooks Hocog, Global Communications at Notion
Christina Ortega, Board President, Chief Executive Officer
Christine Keener, Director, Government and Community Affairs at Verizon
Jake Guida, Senior Software Engineer at Adobe
Jeff Schnitz, Board Treasurer, Growth Strategy at HighTower
Jonathan Chan, Partner at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati
Sam Purtill, Head of AI Enablement at Cognition Labs
Yulia Murzaeva, CPA, CIA, Partner – Nonprofit A&A Quality Control Lead at CHJ

Building the future, together

Mission Bit is entering our next chapter of growth — expanding in-school computer science, integrating AI literacy across programs, and reaching more students than ever before. The future of tech should reflect the communities it serves, and we’re committed to building that future together.

To our students, instructors, families, volunteers, partners, and supporters — thank you for being part of the Mission Bit community. Your trust, time, and generosity make free computer science and AI education possible for thousands of Bay Area youth each year. We’re grateful to be building this future together.

Support our 2026 vision

Two Mission Bit students collaborating on a laptop during Demo Day, where students present coding and computer science projects.