40 [Interview] One Voice in CS – Dr. Marcus Borders

Dr. Marcus Borders, a learning innovation specialist with EdFarm, shares how a parent’s generosity in his Title I elementary classroom sparked a lifelong commitment to empowering families with technology. Drawing on 17 years in education and his doctoral research — a qualitative case study with parents of elementary-age students — Marcus explores how teachers, parents, and coaches all need personalized, human-centered support when it comes to ed tech. He emphasizes meeting people where they are, building empathy through research and lived experience, and finding creative low-barrier strategies (including the memorable "Potty PD") to keep communication alive and innovation moving forward.