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 the extraordinary work of Myra as a long-time member and supporter of multiple initiatives at CSTA.
What inspired you to volunteer your time with CSTA? How has this experience impacted you?
Volunteering with the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) offered me a unique opportunity to contribute to a growing community that supports educators in teaching computer science effectively. I was the only CS teacher on my campus at that time. I feel I am a better computer science teacher through my attendance at chapter meetings and the CSTA Conference.
How long have you been involved with CSTA, and what motivated you to join?
I began meeting with other Computer Science teachers in 2005 to help me teach Computer Science more effectively. I was the only CS teacher on my campus at that time. I helped form the Los Angeles chapter. I was looking for teachers that I could discuss teaching strategies with to help me be more effective.
Can you share any memorable experiences or highlights from your involvement with CSTA?
My first CSTA Conference was in 2005 in San Diego. I drove down for the day from Orange County. I was impressed. I applied to run for the CSTA Board in 2007 and I won! It was a wonderful experience serving on the board and helping to shape CSTA. After I left the board I continue to serve on the board of my local chapter.
How has CSTA impacted your teaching career and professional development?
It has helped me to develop teaching strategies that have influenced my students to study computer science in college. It has also encouraged me to ask my superintendent to provide professional development time for the district CS teachers. Through my involvement with CSTA I was able to reach out to others for suggestions for the agenda for the PD days. Also through CSTA two volunteers offered to speak to the teachers about teaching strategies for computer science.
In what ways do you see CSTA shaping the future of computer science education?
Through the influence of CSTA I see that computer science offerings in elementary school and middle school have increased. CSTA will continue to influence computer science in the lower grades as well as continuing to increase the number of states that now have computer science standards. I hope, through the influence of CSTA, computer science will become a graduation requirement.
Are there any specific initiatives or projects within CSTA that you’ve been particularly passionate about?
The CSTA Conference is a project that I have been involved with for many years. When I was on the board all of the board members would help set up for the conference. A few years after I left the board I volunteered as a member of the conference committee. I feel that the conference has influenced so many and I enjoy helping to make it the best experience possible.
What does the future of CSTA look like?
The future of CSTA appears to me to continue to push for inclusion so more students can have the opportunity to learn CS. Additionally, with the fast changing face of AI, CSTA is poised to continue to educate educators about this important topic.