Welcome!
This is an exhilarating time to be a computer science teacher in Connecticut, especially in the age of artificial intelligence. While AI technology is breathtakingly powerful, the challenge cuts two ways. Large language models offer us an unprecedented opportunity to personalize learning, enhance rigor, and develop computational thinking in ways we've never done before. At the same time, we must upgrade our teaching practice to support engaged, joyful learning and keep the human in the loop. Much like when calculators and the internet entered education, we will figure out how to make this work for all our students. I’m reminded of Eliza Schuler’s line from Hamilton, “Look around, look around at how lucky we are to be alive right now.”
These times present significant challenges for our students and the communities in which they live. Computer Science Education is for every student at every grade level, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, or economic status. In a world driven by computers, computer science education is a fundamental human right. CSTA has always stood for these values, and that will not change. The same people who are tragically underrepresented in the technology space—women, people of color, Latinos, indigenous people, LGBTQ+, GNC—are the very students in our classrooms today. Now more than ever, teaching is the engine of social change. We, the CS teachers, have the opportunity to nurture a generation of thinkers and leaders who will build a more socially just technology space.
In the spring of 2025, we conducted a comprehensive membership poll through a process that included a national survey, a state-level poll, and numerous one-on-one conversations with members from across the state. Thank you for participating in that conversation! The calendar of events we have put together for this coming year is a direct result of your feedback. We have expanded our professional development offerings to include AI, AP, Intentional Play, and a greater focus on our elementary and middle school educators alongside our high school colleagues.
CSTA is truly "The World's Biggest Computer Science Department." Far too many of our members are the only person in their school who does what they do. By connecting with each other, we can feel encouraged and build the creative community that will turn CS education on its ear and make it the essential core subject it deserves to be.
Join us!
John Tusch,
President, CSTA CT
john.tusch@gmail.com