What we do

At Tech Rocks, we offer the following services to build and develop the technical foundation of our students:

  • After school – weekly one hour classes offers technology, typing & coding to develop a strong technical foundation
  • Break/Week Camps – project/activity-based curriculum where students select tech activities of interest and complete deliverables
  • On-site classes – the same great curriculum that we offer at our classroom is now available at yours
  • Minecraft Birthday Parties – Creating unique gaming experiences along with skills of teamwork, cooperation, and fun.

Staff

Tech Rocks! is the afterschool technology immersion program designed to educate and empower its students in a fun learning environment

We need young Americans like you to master the tools and technology that will change the we way we do just about everything

– President Obama

About the Instructor
Alvin Desuasido is a local San Mateo parent and experienced Information Technology executive with over 25 years of experience in computer programming, hardware/software and all forms of digital technology. Working his way up from an entry level developer to an IT Executive, his experiences have helped him develop a comprehensive understanding of all areas of technology. His broad expertise ranges from creating several successful business startups, e-commerce, database design, complex web applications, enterprise-wide systems, and developing globally ranked mobile apps for both Apple iOS and Android. As a member of the Computer Science Teachers of America (CSTA), he is combining his passion for teaching with his love of technology. His aim is to provide all his students with the strong foundation of technology that will help them succeed in their bright futures.

 

 

People say you have to have a lot of passion for what you’re doing and it’s totally true… If you don’t, any rational person would give up -Steve Jobs

 

Contact Us

Got questions? We've got the answers.








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Address

Tech Rocks

4208 Olympic Avenue

San Mateo, CA 94403

United States (US)

Phone: 650.285.3610
Email: info@techrocks.org

Classroom/Studio Hours

Sunday 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Monday 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Wednesday 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Friday 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Saturday 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM

Minecraft Party Hours (By Appt. Only)

 

Testimonials

See what parents and students have to say

After School

  • I took my 2nd Grade Brownie troop to Tech Rocks to earn their Computer Expert badge. It was fantastic – the BEST field trip experience the girls have had yet!

    Teacher Alvin put together a wonderful program and he addressed all sorts of tech apps and software, including a bit about internet safety that really got the girls thinking about being online.

    I HIGHLY recommend Tech Rocks!! Thank you Teacher Alvin!

    K.S.

    K.S.

  • Great program! My son really enjoyed it and can’t wait to do more!

    N.B.

    N.B.

  • Great place! My son loves the classes & Alvin (the teacher) is very knowledgeable, easy to work with & makes class engaging. We will be back for sure!!!

    T.K.

    T.K.

  • I really like playing the games and we can even play with my friends in class!

    The games are fun!

    The games are fun!

Camps

  • My son loved this camp! He had a great time and wants to go back.

    Debbi

    Debbi

  • My son generally doesn’t enjoy camps, but he really loved this one. This suited him well because he enjoys video games and the social atmosphere of the kids helping each other. I liked it because he learned skills that I wouldn’t normally try to have him learn, i.e typing and coding.

    S.Y.

    S.Y.

  • I really enjoyed going to the tech rocks camp this week! Even though I am new at helping out control little kids and keep them focus it was a great experience for me! Everyday we did something new and I discovered multiple things such as how to create my very own 3D game. I would totally recommend this camp to my friends who enjoy playing around with technology! I appreciate how much time and effort you have put for this camp Alvin! :D

    B.C.

    B.C.

  • TechRocks is a good introduction to coding, typing and minecraft. My daughter had fun with the camp ~ thank you!

    Kathy

    Kathy

  • My son is 11 and he grew up on numerous camps during summer, winter, and spring. This was his most favorite camp so far. He not only had a fabulous time but learned a ton of new things related to programming. Excellent teacher, excellent group of children, and excellent structure of the week of learning. We will definitely be back!!!!

    T

    T

Birthday Parties

  • Tech Rocks! is the perfect place to have a minecraft party. To be honest I really didn’t know what minecraft was however Teacher Alvin did a great job keeping the kids focus and entertained. I would definitely return and recommend Tech Rocks! Minecraft parties to everyone.

    V.A.

    V.A.

  • Our son asked to have his 9th b/d party at TechRocks!  He and 10 of his friends had an amazing time at the Mindcraft themed party. The owner and staff were Super friendly, helpful, fun and accommodating with each of our invitees.  I could not believe how the kids enjoyed themselves for two long hours non-stop. I highly recommend TechRocks! and I would suggest choosing the longer duration party.  The kids will beg you for more time!!

    I.C.

    I.C.

  • We had a birthday party with 11 boys (3rd grade) at TechRocks yesterday. The boys had a blast! I had no idea gaming could be so interactive! TJ was our host/instructor and he was great. Always stayed calm and made sure everyone got their questions answered or helped when they were stuck. The kids thought it was EPIC!
    We went to Village Host Pizza with the gang for lunch. Overall a great event. I worked with Nicole to plan the party and she was very efficient too. She even made reservations at the Village Host (where you get 20% if you go there in combination with a TechRocks party).
    Would totally recommend this if you have a bunch of high energy kids for a party and don’t know how to keep them busy.

    A.D.

    A.D.

  • My child attended a Minecraft themed birthday party at Tech Rocks. I was pleasantly surprised to find a welcoming environment that encourages young tech enthusiasts.  Alvin, the owner, was very patient with a group of eager kids and made sure that their experience was not only fun but also educational.

    Because he is great with children, I see Alvin doing well with the students of his after school classes and summer programming camps.  Tech Rocks is definitely worth a look if you are thinking of getting your kids into coding.

    C.B.

    C.B.

  • We had a Minecraft party here last weekend. The kids had a blast! Alvin is very patient and made sure all kids had help if they needed it.  He is very knowledgeable in the world of Minecraft.  He was very accommodating with all aspects of our party and very helpful in setting everything up.

    A.R.

    A.R.

Don’t just buy a new video game, make one.

Don’t just download the latest app, help design it.

Don’t just play on your phone, program it.

Pres. Barack Obama

Intern Program

The Tech Rocks Intern Program is designed to leverage the skills of our students, while developing additional real world skills, like leadership, work experience, and more! The program is geared towards 7/8th graders, and high school students.

The program will be taking on students and training them in the following areas:

  • Leadership Skills
  • Mentoring/Teaching Students
  • Technology Skills Development
  • Problem Solving
  • Small Group Facilitation

Here are just a few of the benefits from participating in the program:

  • Possible Volunteer/Service Hours
  • Extra Curricular Highlights when applying to High School/College
  • Work Experience on Resume/Transcript
  • Fulfills requirements for future part-time work at Tech Rocks once they are eligible (Junior/Senior Year)
Learn Lead Earn
7/8 Grade Freshman/Sophomore Junior/Senior
  • 20-hour committment
  • Flexible Hours
  • Develop Leadership Skills
  • Increase Tech Skills
  • Help Students Learn Tech
  • Build Work Ethic
  • Volunteer Opportunity
  • Flexible Hours
  • Teach Students
  • Increase Tech Skills
  • Train Learners
  • Increase Work Experience
  • Competitive Wages
  • Flexible Hours
  • Oversee Leaders
  • Oversee Learners
  • Increase Tech Skills
  • Build Resume

If you would like to apply to learn, lead, and earn at Tech Rocks, please complete the short application below:

(click here to view Intern Application Form)

Jobs

Here are a list of current jobs available:

Instructor

Education Level: HS Graduate, preferably pursuing a degree in a Technology-related field

Description: Facilitate a small class group by:

  • Discussing a technology topic (Email,MS Office,Web,Programming)
  • Leading an activity
  • Reviewing and assist students with typing skills
  • Demonstrating and assisting in programming/coding activities

Hours: 10-35 hours/week:

Pay Rate: $16-20/hr. based on experience

Teaching Assistant

Min. Education Level: Currently in High School

Description: Assist instructors in teaching a small class group by:

  • Discussing a technology topic (Email,MS Office,Web,Programming)
  • Participating in an activity
  • Reviewing and assisting students with typing skills
  • Demonstrating and assisting in programming/coding activities

Hours: 10-15 hours/week:

Pay Rate: $15-17/hr. based on experience

 

Party Host

Min. Education Level: Some High School

Description: Be the host of an online multiplayer LAN party:

    • Lead games using games like Minecraft/Roblox
    • Setting up Mincraft Servers and Roblox VIP Servers
    • Explore and research Minecraft worlds
    • Have an understanding of popular Roblox Games

Hours: 6-15 hours/week, including weekends:

Pay Rate: $15-17/hr. based on experience

 

Job Application

To apply for any of these jobs, please send an e-mail to jobs@techrocks.org or complete the form below:

(click here to view Job Application Form)

Locations

Coming to a city near you!

We are currently located in two cities along the San Francisco Peninsula:

  • Belmont (2014; Moved to San Mateo)
  • San Mateo (Main Location. As Of December 2015)
  • San Francisco (June 2017)
  • San Jose (December 2018; Closed as of 2020)
  • Your town?

We are continually looking to expand to other tech-friendly cities. Would you like to see a Tech Rocks in your neighborhood? at your school ? Drop us a note to let us know why your city/school should be next!







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San Mateo Campus
4208 Olympic Avenue
San Francisco Campus
2339 Ocean Avenue
Email
info@techrocks.org
Phone
650-285-3610

Tech Camps: Now In-Person!

Tech Rocks offers camps during school breaks to provide continuous Technology Enrichment to our students.

Tech Camps

To reinforce technology skills and extend their digital knowledge in a full-day format. Our camps provide a balanced approach of technology time and indoor play. During camp, your child will extend their knowledge and supplement what they already know in the areas of:

  • Basic Computing (Internet Safety, Typing, Navigation,Email)
  • Individual Programming Track (IPT)
  • Multimedia (Photo,Audio,Video)
  • Game Design & Development (using Minecraft)
  • Web Development
  • Mobile App Development

This camp is a must-do for all parents who want their children to gain insight into the world of technology, programming, and fun!

Typical Day:

AM 9:00AM-11:30AM

  • Typing Fundamentals & Games
  • Snack/Break – Indoor Rec Time
  • Programming/Coding Puzzles & Games
  • Individual Project/Activity Time
  • Network Gaming/Minecraft/Free Play

LUNCH 11:30AM-12:30PM

PM

  • Typing Drills & Games
  • Snack/Break – Indoor Rec Time
  • Programming/Coding Puzzles & Games
  • Individual Project/Activity Time
  • Network Gaming/Minecraft

One-Day Camps

View Availability

Fall Camps

View Availability

Winter Camps

View Availability

Spring Break Camps

View Availability

Before and After Care

We provide before/aftercare from 8:00am-9:00am and from 3:00pm-6:00pm at $15/hour. No signups needed.

 

Camp Cancellation Policy

There is no fee to change/transfer camp dates/locations. We can do a partial refund ($50 non-refundable cancellation fee per child, per camp) if the cancellation is more than 14 days prior to the camp, after that, we no longer issue a refund.


After School Tech Program

Our After School Program is back and will be run in-person. Just register for the day of the week you would like to attend and for $145 a month you can login anytime between 3pm - 6pm for as much time as you want of Typing, Coding, and Minecraft.

We are now back offering in-person camps 5 days a week!

Our award-winning after school program is new and improved for 2021. To offer families the most flexibility, we are now offering both in-person and online classes. Just register for the day of the week (M-F) you would like to attend and for $145/month, you can log in anytime between 3pm – 6pm for a Typing & Coding session.

  • TYPING: Award-Winning Typing Software
  • CODING: Individualized Programming Curriculum
  • FREE-TIME: Socialize with fellow campers in collaborative games like Minecraft & Roblox
  • Flex-Time Scheduling
  • Unlimited Make-up Policy

In-Person Camps

Students attend for 1 hour each week.  Computer stations will be socially distanced and masks will be required per CDC and CA State Health guidelines.

Please select your primary time when registering.

Enroll In-Person After School Monday (SM)

 

Enroll In-Person After School Tuesday (SF)

 

Enroll In-Person After School Wednesday (SM)

 

Enroll In-Person After School Thursday (SF)

 

Enroll In-Person After School Friday (SM)

 

 

Course Objective

Our comprehensive curriculum is designed to give your child a strong technological foundation and an understanding of how technology plays a role in our lives today, as well as in their future.

Class Format

Typing

One of today’s key skills that will make your child more successful is commonly overlooked. With our acclaimed software, students learn through interactive drills, and have a great time playing our typing games. Behind all that fun, they are building their typing skills with every session. Our goal is to have them touch type, typing each letter with the proper finger and not have to look at the keyboard.

Individualized Programming Track (IPT)

Our IPT is a coding/programming curriculum that each child completes at their individual level and pace.  Your child will have access to a laptop of their own during class labs and our instructors will be there to guide them through each lesson, giving one-on-one assistance, as needed. Our IPT starts with a visual interface language (Blockly) to develop their awareness of basic programming concepts. As they progress, we introduce traditional programming languages like Javascript, Python, HTML, and more!



Classroom Environment

Class Size

To provide a more focused learning environment, our current class sizes range from 6-10 students per class, but may vary per class.

Age-Specific Curriculum

All our courses are taught with your child’s age in mind.  We believe that children learn best when they are interested and they are interested when they can relate to what’s being taught.

One Student, One Laptop

All students will have access to their own laptop during class/lab hours. This allows our students to learn at their own pace, utilize the most of lab time, and always addressing their needs on an individual basis.

All Things Technology

We have a wide range of state-of-the-art hardware and cutting edge software available to our students and are constantly adding new technology as it becomes available to give our students the resources to best understand the technology.  From smartphones and tablets for app development to a professional Digital SLR camera and green screen backdrop.

Schedule

We now offer monthly classes that your child can start at any time!

Convenient Weekly Classes

Start learning anytime! Just select what day of the week works best with your schedule

Flex-time Scheduling

We’re doing away with set times! Parents can now coordinate to find the best time that works from them between 3:00pm-6:00pm.

Easy monthly pricing

Simplified billing for your convenience

Pricing

Tuition for our after school classes are as follows

Special Promotion Price!

$145/mo.

$145/mo.

Limited Time Only.  Enroll Today!

Prices are subject to change without notice.

Minecraft/Roblox Birthday Parties

Come party with us and see how Tech Rocks!


In-Person or Virtual

Tech Rocks Parties are a great way to celebrate your child’s special day playing their favorite games like Minecraft & Roblox. Our virtual birthday options provide a safe and new way to come together and have fun

Minecraft

Join Steve and the Creepers as we go on a Minecraft adventure! Simply select your Minecraft worlds to explore and leave the rest to us. Our trained staff will lead your partygoers through expeditions, missions, and creative cooperation in our private, secure connected Minecraft worlds. Your child will have a blast discovering new worlds, working together with up to 20 friends, and crafting secret items in their own Minecraft nirvana.

We would request that all participants play on the same Minecraft Platform, Java (Win/Mac), or Bedrock (Win/Mobile/XBox/PS5/Switch) and have it installed prior to the party. We can provide additional set up instructions based on different games selected. Players are required to have a Minecraft account to participate.

Roblox

Your child can create a unique birthday experience in the world of Roblox. We provide private VIP Servers, depending on the Roblox game selected, and create a collaborative shared experience for all players. Roblox accounts are free to create on the Roblox website.

Prices start at $299

Gold Birthday Party

$299
  • Virtual: Private Online Zoom with breakout rooms, as needed
  • 90 minutes Total
  • Includes 8 players (16 Players max @ $15/addl player)/li>
  • Explore up to 2 Minecraft/Roblox worlds (Obstacle Courses, Missions, Hunger Games, Construction, Star Wars, and more!)
  • Fun Party Host to facilitate game play
  

Diamond Birthday Party

$399
Includes everything in the standard birthday party with these upgrades:

  • 2 hours Total
  • Includes up to 12 simultaneous players
  • Up to 3 Minecraft/Roblox worlds/games to explore
  

Book A Party

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