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 Kingsley Onyekachi in their role as Awards, Conference Committee Member.
What inspired you to volunteer your time with CSTA? How has this experience impacted you?
What inspired me to volunteer my time with CSTA is my unwavering passion for education and technology. I firmly believe in the transformative power of computer science education in shaping the future of the world and also contributing my quota to providing access to computer education to underserved populations. I came from a part of the world where access to effective computer education is still a mirage. Witnessing the profound impact that quality education can have on students’ lives motivates me to contribute to initiatives like CSTA, where I can make a meaningful difference.
How long have you been involved with CSTA, and what motivated you to join?
I got involved with CSTA in 2015 (nine years ago). As someone who studied computer education at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and holds a degree in computer science, my passion for technology and education has always been at the forefront of my career.
My motivation to join CSTA stems from my deep-rooted belief in the importance of computer science education and my desire to make a positive impact in the field. I have seen firsthand how access to quality education can change lives and open doors to endless opportunities. CSTA’s mission to promote computer science education aligns perfectly with my own values and aspirations.
I see CSTA as a platform for me to give back to the community by sharing my expertise and experiences with fellow educators and students. I am committed to contributing to the advancement of computer science education and empowering the next generation of innovators and problem solvers. Additionally, being part of CSTA allows me to connect with like-minded educators and professionals who share my passion for technology and education. I am eager to collaborate, share insights, and learn from others in the field to further enhance my skills and knowledge.
Can you share any memorable experiences or highlights from your involvement with CSTA?
One of my most memorable experiences with CSTA has been the opportunity to attend the annual conferences on scholarships. These events have not only provided invaluable networking opportunities with computer education teachers but also allowed me to contribute by reviewing awards. Additionally, gaining access to resources for personal development has been immensely beneficial and has enhanced my skills as an educator in the field of computer science.
My involvement with CSTA has given me opportunities to collaborate with other teachers on a project aimed at promoting equity in classrooms and introducing computer science education to underserved communities. Together with a dedicated team of educators and volunteers, we developed a series of interactive workshops and outreach programs designed to ignite students’ interest in technology and coding.
Attending CSTA Annual Conferences has given me a chance to connect with educators from around the world and exchange ideas and best practices in computer science education. The conference sessions were informative and engaging, and I left feeling energized and inspired to bring new ideas and strategies back to my own classroom.
How has CSTA impacted your teaching career and professional development?
CSTA has had a profound impact on my teaching career and professional development in several significant ways. Firstly, through CSTA’s professional development opportunities, I have gained access to valuable resources, workshops, and training sessions that have enhanced my teaching skills and expanded my knowledge of computer science education. These experiences have allowed me to stay up-to-date on the latest trends, pedagogical approaches, and technologies in the field, ultimately improving my ability to deliver high-quality instruction to my students.
Furthermore, my involvement with CSTA has provided me with a supportive community of educators who share a passion for computer science education. Through networking events, online forums, and collaborative projects, I have been able to connect with like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, and learn from the experiences of others. This sense of community has been invaluable in helping me navigate the challenges of teaching and find inspiration and support along the way.
In addition, CSTA has provided me with opportunities to take on leadership roles and contribute to initiatives that promote computer science education at both the local and national levels. Being a CSTA Chapter Leader has allowed me to grow as a leader, advocate, and change agent within my school and broader educational community.
Overall, CSTA has been instrumental in shaping my teaching career and professional development, providing me with the resources, support, and opportunities needed to excel in the field of computer science education. I am deeply grateful for the impact that CSTA has had on my growth as an educator and computer scientist, especially in the present artificial intelligence (AI) era. I look forward to continuing my journey with this inspiring organization.
In what ways do you see CSTA shaping the future of computer science education?
CSTA is instrumental in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within computer science education. By advocating for equitable access to computer science learning opportunities for all students, regardless of their background or identity, CSTA helps to address systemic barriers and ensure that computer science education is accessible and inclusive for everyone. This commitment to diversity not only promotes social equity but also fosters innovation and creativity by bringing together individuals with diverse perspectives and experiences.
CSTA plays a crucial role in shaping policy and driving systemic change in computer science education at the local, state, and national levels. Through advocacy efforts and strategic partnerships, CSTA works to influence education policies, funding priorities, and curriculum standards to better support computer science education initiatives. By advocating for the integration of computer science into K-12 education and promoting the recognition of computer science as a core academic subject, CSTA is helping to ensure that all students have the opportunity to develop essential computational thinking skills and prepare for future success in an increasingly digital workforce.
CSTA’s leadership, advocacy, and collaboration efforts are shaping the future of computer science education by promoting innovation, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and driving systemic change at all levels of the education system. I am proud to be a part of an organization that is making such a profound and positive impact on the future of education.
Are there any specific initiatives or projects within CSTA that you’ve been particularly passionate about?
One specific initiative that I’ve been particularly passionate about within CSTA is the Cutler-Bell Prize, awarded by CSTA in collaboration with the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM). This initiative recognizes high school students for their achievements in computer science education and encourages them to pursue further studies and careers in the field. I am currently a CSTA/ACM Cutler-Bell Prize Award Review Committee member.
Additionally, I’ve found the CSTA Chapter Leadership Summit and the CSTA Annual Conference to be incredibly inspiring and enriching experiences. These events provide valuable opportunities for networking, professional development, and collaboration among educators and leaders in computer science education.
What does the future of CSTA look like?
The future of CSTA is incredibly promising. As the organization continues to expand its reach and influence, I envision CSTA evolving into a worldwide body that shapes the landscape of computer science education. With its commitment to innovation, advocacy, and collaboration, CSTA will play a pivotal role in advancing the field of computer science education, ensuring equitable access to quality instruction for students globally, and empowering educators to excel in their profession.