Policy Work

With constantly changing standards and assessments, I feel it is important for researchers to stay informed of policy, and where possible utilize research to inform policy makers about the educational landscape. I have always been an advocate for access to computer science education for all students, and with the report, Running on Empty: The Failure to Teach K-12 Computer Science in the Digital Age I analyzed standards from 50 states and compiled data that is being used to support legislation in the United States Congress. The website for the report contains an interactive map that shows the individual results for each state.

Outreach and Broadening Participation

I believe that encouraging under represented groups to explore computer science is not only important but also fun. I have taught a number of workshops for girls and in diverse schools. Additionally I have been organizing Carnegie Mellon's Computer Science Education Day. I served as a member of the board of directors for the Computer Science Teachers Association, and a member of the equity committee during that time. I look forward to continuing to work with local schools and national organizations to promote computing.

Starting SciTech

While attending Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh I had the opportunity to work with the startup of the Pittsburgh Science and Technology Academy. I initially joined the team consulting with the primary curriculum author, then as a member of the curriculum committee, the advisory board, and now that the school is open I am a member of the Occupational Advisory Committee for the Computer Science curriculum.