Welcome to the CSTA Volunteer Spotlight series, where we celebrate the incredible individuals who dedicate their time and passion to making a difference in the CSTA community. Join us in recognizing and appreciating the extraordinary efforts of Alfred in their role as 9-12 Subcommittee Member, Conference Committee.
What inspired you to volunteer your time with CSTA? How has this experience impacted you?
CSTA has been a source of community and support since it was created. It has helped me develop support, knowledge, and confidence. I wanted to give back to the community. Being a CSTA volunteer has been a way to give back and to support things that are important to me.
How long have you been involved with CSTA, and what motivated you to join?
I am a charter member of CSTA and signed up for CSTA+ when it was first created. I wanted to be part of the community, to learn from others, and to support others in the CS teachers’ community. The original CS&IT conferences where a great source of learning for me. I thought I had (and have) something to contribute and CSTA allowed me to do that.
Can you share any memorable experiences or highlights from your involvement with CSTA?
There are so many it is hard to narrow it down. Presenting at a number of CSTA conferences was huge for me. It was an honor and privilege to serve two terms on the CSTA Board of Directors as well.
How has CSTA impacted your teaching career and professional development?
I have learned a great deal from other teachers at conferences and other events. I’ve learned great projects, teaching skills and techniques, and many tools that I have used in my classrooms. The friendships I have made through CSTA have helped me feel supported and given me confidence.
In what ways do you see CSTA shaping the future of computer science education?
The efforts that CSTA is involved in have and continue to set the standards for what is taught in CS. That need grows, and CSTA will be important for making sure that teacher voices are heard. Perhaps the most important thing is the mentorship that members provide, largely through chapters, to new teachers who are new to teaching CS. That support will be very important in the coming years.
Are there any specific initiatives or projects within CSTA that you’ve been particularly passionate about?
Equity has been very important to me. I chaired the Equity committee for several years while on the Board. The Equity Fellowship is an outstanding initiative. Widening the field of CS is important to society and CSTA has long been a part of those efforts.
What does the future of CSTA look like?
The future of CSTA is going to be based on chapters. Chapters will support more and more professional development and mentorship to teachers. Chapters will be hubs for promoting CS developments in communities and states. The CSTA Annual Conference will grow as a source of professional development but also of community building for individuals and chapters.