Kyree’s Coding + Math Breakthrough
Kyree didn’t see himself as a “math kid.” Division and multiplication had been a struggle for him since third grade, and by fifth grade he was still working to catch up. Then, something finally clicked — through coding.
Every Friday during summer camp (and continuing into after-school programming), students ages 10 and up at the Red Shield Youth Center of Richmond, Virginia participated in leadership and life-skills programming through their partnership with the PEACE E3 (East End Empowered) program. One of E3’s partners, Mr. Kevonte, introduced the students to basic computer coding and showed them how A.I. and coding can be used to create learning tools like video games, reading games, and math games.
While all the students worked at different paces, Kyree jumped in with enthusiasm. Over time during the quick one-hour sessions, he created something personal: a math game designed to help him improve the very skills he found most difficult.
When it came time for the E3 Christmas presentation, Kyree proudly shared his project with after-school students, parents, and the community. His game wasn’t just a fun idea; it became a tool he used to practice division and multiplication in a way that finally made sense to him. Over time, that new approach built confidence and tangible results. After years of struggling, Kyree began earning A’s on his math tests and assignments.
“I felt proud because even though I didn’t feel confident about my math skills and learning something that was new to me, seeing my math game work after using coding made me want to keep learning more about math and A.I. coding,” says Kyree.
“The outcomes we’re seeing don’t surprise me,” says Mr. Marvin, president and lead of the E3 Program. “As students learn new and engaging ways to build on skills they already have, their confidence grows and so does their ability. Over the past eight months at the Youth Center (and more than 11 years in the community), we’ve focused on relationships, and we’re seeing that investment translate into real growth for each young person.”
Through their partnership with the PEACE E3 program, the center has seen an 85 percent increase in self-confidence and self-awareness in their kids, an 80 percent improvement in accountability and follow-through, a 78 percent improvement in respectful communication and peer relationships, and a 75 percent improvement in emotional regulation, patience, and conflict resolution. They’ve also seen an 82 percent increase in leadership behavior, a 90 percent increase in brainstorming and creativity, an 88 percent increase in collaboration, and a 76 percent increase in critical analysis and problem- solving.
Kyree’s story is a powerful example of what happens when young people are given encouragement, skills, and a safe place to try something new. Through partnerships like E3, students are gaining confidence, discovering new ways to learn, and taking early steps into leadership — exactly the kind of growth The Salvation Army’s mission is here to support.