Review Process - Computer Science Teachers Association

Curriculum Alignment Review Process

CSTA’s Curriculum Alignment Review process offers curriculum providers an independent, rigorous validation of how their materials align to the 2026 CSTA PK–12 Standards. Earning a Seal of Alignment and a place in the CSTA CS Curriculum Directory signals to educators that experts have reviewed the curriculum and validated its level of alignment to the 2026 CSTA PK–12 Standards.

Why Participate?

Independent credibility – CSTA’s review is conducted by trained PK–12 CS educators using a detailed evaluation process.
Visibility – CSTA is the premiere professional organization for PK–12 computer science teachers, and many teachers look to CSTA when searching for resources. Evaluated curricula appear in the CSTA CS Curriculum Directory, a public resource used by teachers, curriculum directors, administrators, and leaders across the globe.
Actionable feedback – The review produces a detailed crosswalk showing alignment at the standard and concept level, which can inform your own improvement and development work.

How the Review Works?

1. Submit your Curriculum

Complete the crosswalk template for applicable levels of the 2026 CSTA PK–12 CS Standards. For each standard, indicate alignment status and provide examples of aligned resources from your curriculum. Submit the completed crosswalk along with access to your curriculum materials via the submission form. CSTA will confirm receipt within five business days and provide an estimated timeline based on current reviewer capacity.

2. Independent Review

Two or more trained reviewers independently evaluate the alignment of each standard indicated in your crosswalk. Reviewers examine your curriculum materials directly and reach consensus on alignment status, determining whether the full breadth and depth of each standard is met (Fully Aligned or Not Fully Aligned). A chairperson and additional reviewers are engaged as needed. The review process takes approximately six weeks from the start of the review.

3. Results and Listing

CSTA shares a completed crosswalk document with the provider, including alignment status of each standard (Fully Aligned or Not Fully Aligned) and alignment summaries by concept. If the provider disagrees with any conclusions, they may request one secondary review by submitting additional evidence and supporting narrative within two weeks. Upon completion, the validated alignment is published in the CSTA CS Curriculum Directory unless the provider requests otherwise and the provider receives the Seal of Alignment. Providers may also share their results independently.