Frequently Asked Questions
The purpose of this organization is to encourage students’ enthusiasm for computer science, to honor academic excellence, and to promote service. Society members and advisors commit to and embody three core values: equity, service, and excellence. For more information, view the CSHS Constitution.
School faculty can submit an online application at csteachers.org/CSHS.
No, you do not have to teach CS at your school in order to start a society, but you will need to have a good working relationship with the CS teacher(s) because they will likely be helpful in recruiting students and checking eligibility for membership. Guidance counselors, technology integrators, academic coaches, gifted resource teachers, librarians or media center specialists, and many other non-teaching school staff can make excellent CSHS advisors.
No. It is important that an advisor be responsible for overseeing the society, events, and students. The application must be submitted by a faculty member at the school.
Absolutely, one of the purposes of the Computer Science Honor Society is to grow computer science awareness. If your school offers at least one computer science course, you are eligible to start a society.
All email communication will be sent to the email address(es) for advisor(s) provided on your society application. All advisors receive access to resources in a shared Google drive. Access to these resources is restricted to faculty advisors, and may not be used by student members or officers (although advisors are welcome to share these resources with students).
Induction pins and graduation cords can be ordered through the CSTA Store; a shipping and handling fee applies for each order. Please allow 2–4 weeks for delivery of pin and cord orders from the date of request.
CSTA+ membership is required to participate in this CSTA program to ensure advisors have access to CSTA+ member benefits and the latest research in CS education.
For any questions not addressed in this FAQ, reach out to cshs@csteachers.org.
Program Fee Structure FAQs
As of September 2020, the CSHS Program fee structure is changing to reflect the needs of the program and to better support our advisors and students. This fee structure is now live.
2024 – 2025 Program Fee Structure
- $100 Renewal Fee for existing CSHSs
- $150 for new CSHSs
- $6 Pins & $5 Cords
- $10 shipping cost
Charter fees and student membership costs are being rolled into a one-time fee per a school year.
CSTA is moving forward with this simplified structure based on feedback and to make it more efficient.
Expenses exist to cover operating costs, so we can provide grants and opportunities to support local CSHS chapters.
At this time, we do not have grants to cover program fees. We can help supply you with an ask letter or additional information to get funding from your school/district.
The fastest way to make a renewal payment is by credit card in the CSHS microsite. We also accept payment by check and ask that you send it to:
Computer Science Teachers Association
332 South Michigan Avenue
Suite #121-C985
Chicago, IL 60604
Please email cshs@csteachers.org.