WeTeach_CS Summit 2026

This session presents findings from a qualitative dissertation study examining how secondary computer science teachers’ classroom design and pedagogical decisions influence female students’ sense of belonging. Using a pedagogical theory and the concept of ambient belonging as a framework, the session highlights how seating arrangements, classroom décor, and instructional practices send powerful messages about who belongs in computer science. Participants will engage with real classroom examples and receive a research-based checklist to help audit and redesign their CS classrooms to be more inclusive, supportive, and engaging for female students.

In this session, we will center on tools for multilingual learners, while also focusing on the components of professional development that support CS programs and allow participation of multilingual students. We will also discuss important aspects of community involvement and professional development, providing tools and best practices to support CS programs. We will share about the effect of Cognitive Load Theory on multilingual learners, sharing tools that can alleviate that load. The session will include sample activities to explore cognitive load effects in the classroom, how to use tools in the integration of CS in the curriculum, and facilitating conversations about cognitive load and its effect on learning. Lastly, we will share how technology can help engage multilingual households and how we can support them in their learners’ CS journey.

Did you know that there is an honor society for Computer Science? This main purpose of this society is to recognize those students who have shown a genuine interest in learning how to code. The society managed by the Computer Science Teachers Association. We will discuss how to create a school-based honor society, cover resources to get your society started, and answer any questions your may have about this society. Please join us and find out how this could enrich your CS pathway.

In this session, participants will explore how computer science can be intentionally designed to support Differentiation, Engagement, and Individualized Experiences for all learners. Grounded in real classroom practice, the session highlights X-STREAM 15, a diverse group of 5th and 6th grade students that includes students receiving special education services, neurodivergent and autistic learners, and students with varied academic and communication needs. Attendees will see how tools such as VEX 123 and Cog robots can be leveraged to create accessible, engaging CS experiences that prioritize agency, problem-solving, and meaningful participation for every student.

Many K–12 students, including those with disabilities or impacted by restrictive learning environments, face barriers to effective digital learning. Limited access, rigid technology policies, inflexible instructional design, and emerging AI tools can either widen or reduce these gaps. In this interactive session, participants explore how accessibility, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and responsible AI use intersect in K–12 classrooms. Through real-world scenarios, collaboration, and reflection, attendees examine how accessible and AI-supported technologies can personalize learning, reduce barriers, and strengthen student agency while navigating school policies. Participants leave with practical tools to design future-ready learning experiences.

As shifts in enrollment driven by school choice policies require districts to rethink the use of existing facilities, community makerspaces present a scalable, research-aligned strategy for maximizing both space and educational impact. Well-designed makerspaces support high-quality STEM learning through hands-on, interdisciplinary experiences while leveraging sustainable programming models, strategic staffing, and partnerships with industry and higher education. By repositioning underutilized facilities as community-accessible STEM hubs, school districts can expand equitable access to authentic STEM pathways for students while strengthening workforce readiness and community engagement.