About Us

Why Choose Urban Coders?

At Urban Coders, we’re more than just an educational service — we’re a movement. A movement dedicated to breaking barriers, changing lives, and creating opportunities for students who face the toughest obstacles. Whether you're an adult learner trying to finish your high school diploma or someone ready to take on the challenge of higher education, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Our Commitment to You

Education is the foundation of a brighter future, but for many, it seems out of reach. Urban Coders understands the unique struggles that come with being an underprivileged or non-traditional student. That’s why we’ve built our services around you — offering personalized support that works for your schedule, background, and individual goals.

We’re here to help you break the code — the societal and systemic barriers that often stand in your way. Whether it’s the challenges of returning to school after dropping out, navigating the financial aid process, or balancing education with personal responsibilities, we’ve got your back.

About the Founder Martin Smallhorne 

Martin Smallhorne is the founder of Urban Coders, a passionate advocate dedicated to breaking down educational barriers for underprivileged and adult students. With years of experience in education, Martin has made it his life’s work to ensure that every student has the opportunity to earn their high school or college degree, no matter their background.

As the School Leader of the Young Adult Borough Center (YABC) at Herbert H. Lehman High School in the Bronx, Martin has spent over 15 years helping students who are at risk of dropping out. Many of these students, who have struggled in traditional high school settings, are given a second chance to earn their diplomas, gain job readiness skills, and prepare for their future. Under his leadership, the YABC program has helped countless students graduate and move on to higher education and careers. His work was featured in Time Magazine and ABC Channel 7, shining a light on the importance of alternative programs for non-traditional students.

Martin’s career began as a teacher at Pacific High School in Brooklyn, the first alternative high school in New York City. His extensive experience with at-risk youth led him to positions such as Director of The Two Bridges Academy in Brooklyn and Principal at the West Side High School Annex in Harlem. Today, he leads YABC at Lehman High School, where his focus remains on student success through high expectations and personalized support.

A native of Jamaica, Martin is a proud product of the New York City public school system. He earned his B.A. in History, Philosophy, and Sociology from SUNY Stonybrook University and later completed two M.A. degrees, one in Education and the other in Administration and Supervision. His career has been shaped by his belief in the power of education to transform lives, especially for those who face the greatest challenges.

Through Urban Coders, Martin is committed to empowering students by breaking down barriers to education. His vision is to provide accessible pathways to success, whether through high school diplomas, college degrees, or career readiness programs. For Martin, education is the key to unlocking every student’s potential, and his work with Urban Coders reflects his lifelong dedication to this mission.

Stay Connected

Urban Coders is more than a program — it’s a community. We love connecting with students, families, and advocates across platforms. Follow us to stay inspired, informed, and involved: