Events and Fundraisers
HackSPF
The EEF HackSPF hackathon introduces computer science enrichment to our 3rd through 12th grade community in the Scotch Plains-Fanwood School District through a variety of programming workshops. Participating coders choose one of six learning tracks. Each workshop is led by talented SPF high school–aged coders. HackSPF is a playful, exploratory computer programming event for all of our students!
Coding is emerging as a new literacy for students because it helps them develop problem-solving and computational thinking skills. When learning to code, students learn how to break down problems into smaller components that are easier to solve and how to create algorithms to address those problems step by step. Coding is also becoming a fundamental skill for careers and educational pursuits beyond traditional “technology fields.” For example, students interested in science will need to use code to analyze data. Those pursuing art or design will need code to make their projects digital and accessible online. And students aiming for careers in business will need code to create automated email and social media campaigns. Students who learn to code in school will be well prepared for the digital world they will enter after graduation.
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Our 2025 Hack SPF was a great success and we look forward to our 2026 event!​​​​​
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scratch
Scratch is a block-based visual programming language that allows coders to create their own interactive stories, games, and animations. Coders designing Scratch projects learn to think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively. Scratch is great for students who are learning to code for the first time.​​
codesters
Codesters is a fun online coding platform that uses drag-to-text guides to build Python text-based coding. Python is a popular programming language that is used to teach introductory computer science courses at high school and university level. Since most students have been introduced to computer science through block-based programming (such as Scratch (https://scratch.mit.edu), adopting Codesters approach serves as a bridge between block-based programming and command text programming.
Web Design
Learn the skills to create your very own website! Web Design is becoming an important skill as there are more Internet users than ever before. Coders will use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create informational, stylish, and interactive websites. Coders will be able to access their finished websites on the Internet.
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earsketch
Learn to code and make music! EarSketch helps coders learn core topics in computer science, music, and music technology in a fun, engaging environment. You learn to code in Python or JavaScript to produce music, while manipulating loops, composing beats, and applying effects to a multi-track digital audio workstation.
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robotics
Programming? Legos? Need us say more? Come check out our introduction to robotics ran by Raider Robotics, the SPFHS robotics team. In this collaborative track, you will work in small groups to design, build, and program Lego robots. We will be using Lego Spike Primes (here) to tackle challenges that will test one's problem solving abilities as well as their programming skills. Lego Spike Primes offer two different ways to code - blocks and Python - making this a great opportunity to learn and practice programming, regardless of your experience.
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java
Join us for an engaging workshop designed to introduce you to the fundamentals of programming through Java, one of the most widely used languages in the world! We'll guide you through setting up an IDE, understanding Java's history and syntax, and exploring how variables, data types, and functions work. You'll learn how to manipulate data, create "Hello, World," and even dive into ASCII art creation. By the end, you'll put your skills to the test by developing a program of your own and presenting it to the group. No prior experience is necessary—just bring your creativity and curiosity!​