WeTeach_CS Summit 2026

This session will provide participants with an understanding of how The College of Education at The University of Texas at El Paso is advancing a focused strategy to address technological shifts in education. An overview of the Educator Preparation Program, specifically newly designed course work (e.g. Computational Thinking for Educators) and initiatives supporting a commitment to preparing educators for a shift into AI transforming teaching and learning will be provided in during this session. Session participants will walk away with practical strategies for supporting teachers in a rapidly evolving educational landscape as evidenced by the El Paso AI Hub- an innovative strategic initiative designed to accelerate regional AI literacy and competency by providing a centralized, dynamic online platform for educators and learners.

Micro:bit Educational Foundation recently developed new 3rd-5th grade lessons aimed at integrating CS with core academic subjects and piloted these resources with over 150 teachers across 84 elementary schools. Hear from the Micro:bit Educational Foundation and the Texas Advanced Computing Center evaluation team as they tell the story of the pilot project, examine the evaluation research results, share the resources created, and walk through an example lesson. Small group discussions will focus on how to roll out micro:bit integration into local district and school contexts.

As computational thinking, computer science, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence become essential literacy skills, school and district leaders must move beyond siloed courses and computer labs. This session explores strategic leadership approaches for integrating these skills across non-traditional content areas and student-centered programs. Participants will examine inclusive systems that expand access, support educators across disciplines, and leverage interdisciplinary initiatives to align with district goals, workforce readiness, and future-focused learning.

CS4TX is the advocacy organization leading the work with the Texas Legislature, SBOE, SBEC, and other agencies to assure that teachers have funding for professional learning, getting certified, and assuring that CS Education is represented in Texas.

In our session, we will explore how LaunchK5 serves as the foundational engine for building a robust K12 STEM and Career and Technical Education (CTE) pipeline. By introducing high-quality, hands-on engineering and technology modules at the elementary level, we are sparking early interest and ensuring students possess the prerequisite skills for secondary success.
We will discuss aligning LaunchK5’s modules with middle and high school pathways to create a seamless vertical transition. This strategic integration empowers our students to move confidently from foundational exploration to advanced industry-based certifications, ultimately preparing a future-ready workforce tailored to our district’s unique economic needs.

Not every student interested in computing wants—or needs—a traditional computer science major. In this session, we will explore how UT Austin has expanded access to computing through a variety of academic pathways. We will provide an overview of the new X+CS Program, the Programming and Computing Certificate, and other interdisciplinary options that integrate computing with fields such as business, design, entrepreneurship, biology, and social science. Attendees will learn how students can engage with computing while pursuing diverse academic interests, helping educators better advise students who may not see themselves in a traditional CS pathway.

Join Project Director Susan F. Reeves and representatives from the ESC-20 CS Pipeline Hub for a deep dive into the Certification Pipeline Program’s impact. This panel features educators who conquered the CS 8-12 and EC-12 Tech Apps exams after a year of intensive professional development. Participants will share critical lessons learned, including high-impact study strategies, overcoming the "retest" hurdle, and the importance of a structured peer cohort. Attendees will leave with a roadmap for building teacher confidence and technical proficiency, proving that with the right support, the path to CS or Tech Apps certification can be achievable for all.

Join us for an interactive session highlighting the findings and recommendations from Texas Education Preparation Program (EPP) working groups focused on strengthening the CS teacher pipeline in Texas. Over the past year, these groups have collaborated on strategies to address critical challenges in recruitment, shared instruction, and CS teacher certification and preparation.

In this session, participants will:
• Learn about key insights, frameworks, and resources developed by each working group.
• Engage in discussion and provide input on how these strategies can be scaled and adapted across Texas.
• Explore next steps to advance CS teacher preparation and support sustainable pathways for certification and shared instructional resources.

Participants will leave with practical ideas and collaborative opportunities to advance CS teacher preparation in their own contexts. This session aligns with the Summit theme 'Celebrating Brilliance' by showcasing the collective expertise and creativity of Texas EPP partners working toward increasing CS access for ALL students.

Participants will gain a clear understanding of how to extend high school computer science learning into elementary and middle school through after-school programs and Summer STEM camps. This session shares practical strategies, tips, and real-world examples for building age-appropriate CS experiences, where high school students serve as program facilitators and mentors. Attendees will leave with actionable ideas for creating scalable, student-led programs that inspire younger learners and strengthen the CS pipeline.

As Texas public school enrollment has declined notably in recent years, some schools are taking innovative approaches to recruit and retain students. In this session, you’ll hear how three school districts are leveraging computer science education to combat the challenge of declining enrollment. Our panelists will share details about their districts’ approaches to using computer science programs to stabilize and grow school enrollment, with examples from elementary through high school. We’ll discuss best practices, persistent challenges, and untapped opportunities for schools to address declining enrollment in the age of computing and AI.

Building a thriving computer science program takes more than qualified educators, curriculum, and professional development.... it takes funding. Join a dynamic panel of industry partners, nonprofit leaders, and Texas educators who have successfully secured grants, sponsorships, and resources for K-12 computer science programs. Panelists will share real-world strategies for identifying funding opportunities, cultivating community partnerships, and navigating application processes. Whether you're launching a new program or looking to expand existing efforts, you'll leave with actionable steps and valuable connections. Don't let budget barriers stand between your students and a future in computing. Come ready to learn and network!