WeTeach_CS Summit 2026

Generative AI and chatbots are increasingly used by students as “always-available therapists,” yet many don’t recognize the serious risks of sharing personal or emotional data with these tools. This session explores how oversharing with AI can expose students to privacy, safety, and ethical concerns, while also examining the potential of AI to support social-emotional learning when used responsibly. Attendees will learn how intentional digital citizenship instruction can help students critically evaluate AI, protect their data, and engage with these tools in safer, more informed ways.

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.

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.

Educators will explore a variety of plugged and unplugged CS activities, classroom ideas and strategies. Although this is a fast-paced session, attendees of all experience CS levels will leave with an access link to the 30 ideas that also include play-based learning, community involvement, and competition information in coding and eSports. Mobile device is highly encouraged but not required.

Is this the first Computer Science class for most of your students? Do you struggle to spark interest in Computer Science? Come see how I teach my classes, gather ideas you can use in your own classroom, and learn how I built a four-year high school Computer Science program.

Spark excitement in grades 3–8 with after-school computer science clubs powered by free, student-proven programs! This session shows educators how to ignite coding skills, build confidence, and create inclusive opportunities for all learners—while also funding your classroom. Leave energized with practical strategies and inspiration to launch clubs that transform curiosity into lasting impact.