Most tutoring centers can’t actually teach code — they don’t have anyone who writes it. Shater Learning Center does. We bring real software engineering experience to computer science tutoring in El Cajon, from a student’s very first line of code through AP Computer Science and college coursework.
In person at our El Cajon center or online over Google Meet, one-on-one or in small groups. (Coding is one of the subjects that works beautifully online.)
What we teach
- Intro coding for beginners — for students who’ve never written a line, including block-based tools for younger kids
- Python — the best first language, and the backbone of AP CSP
- Java — the language of AP Computer Science A and many college courses
- Web development — HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for students who want to build real things
- Core CS concepts — algorithms, data structures, and problem-solving that transfer to any language
AP Computer Science — the two courses, explained
There are two AP Computer Science courses, and they’re very different. Parents mix them up all the time, so here’s the honest breakdown — and we tutor both.
AP Computer Science Principles (CSP)
The broad, beginner-friendly course. It covers how computing works — algorithms, data, the internet, and cybersecurity — alongside real programming, plus a hands-on programming project. It isn’t tied to one language, so it’s a great first CS course for students who are curious but new to coding.
AP Computer Science A (CSA)
A true programming course, taught in Java. It’s object-oriented, coding-heavy, and roughly equivalent to a first-semester college computer science class. This is the one where students need real support writing and debugging code — exactly where our engineering experience matters most.
Not sure which your student should take? CSP is the gentler on-ramp; CSA is for students ready to program seriously. We’re happy to help you figure out the right fit.
Beginners are welcome — start from zero
You don’t need any background to start. A lot of our CS students begin with no coding experience at all, and there’s no better time — the earlier a student learns to think in code, the more doors it opens later, in school and in careers.
College & adult learners
We also help students in intro computer science courses at Cuyamaca and Grossmont College, and adults picking up programming for a career change. Whatever the goal — passing the class or building a skill — we meet you where you are.
Students we help — from your school
We work with computer science students from Valhalla, Granite Hills, Steele Canyon, Monte Vista, Grossmont, and Christian High, and college students at Cuyamaca and Grossmont.
How it works
1-on-1 in person — Focused sessions at our El Cajon center, working through real code side by side.
1-on-1 online — The same help over Google Meet with screen sharing — ideal for coding.
Small-group in person — A lower-cost option for students in the same class.
Why El Cajon families choose Shater for CS
- Tutors with genuine software engineering experience — not just a textbook
- Both AP CS courses, plus Python, Java, and web development
- Real debugging and project help, not just theory
- In person or online, on a flexible schedule
- Affordable rates — $60/hour
Ready to start?
Book Now · Or call (619) 938-5383 · 2990 Jamacha Road #156, El Cajon, CA 92019.
Strong math makes computer science easier — see our math tutoring in El Cajon. Adult learners and career changers can start with tutoring for adults.
Frequently asked questions
AP Computer Science Principles is a broad, beginner-friendly intro to computing with some programming and a project. AP Computer Science A is a rigorous programming course in Java, closer to a college intro CS class. We tutor both.
Absolutely. Many of our CS students start from zero — no experience needed.
Python, Java, C, C++, C#, plus web development with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and block-based tools for younger kids.
Both — including intro CS courses at Cuyamaca and Grossmont College, and adults learning to code.
Both. Coding works especially well online over Google Meet with screen sharing.