Scaling K-12 Computer Science: High‑Quality, Equitable Instruction in the Age of AI

About the Panelists

Bryan Twarek is the Head of Research and Innovation at CSTA, where he develops and studies programs to improve the equitable teaching and learning of K-12 CS. He is Principal Investigator on several research projects, including CS teacher PD (e.g., AI PD Weeks, Scaling MENTORS in CS), the CS teacher landscape, student learning outcomes (e.g., Reimagining CS Pathways, Identifying AI Priorities), and assessment (e.g., SUCCESSinCS). He is a former middle school teacher, dean, and PD provider. Prior to joining CSTA, he directed CS policy, curriculum, PD, and teacher support for the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD), where he crafted and implemented an equity-minded policy to provide universal experience with creative, rigorous, and relevant CS learning to all students in grades PK-12. Twarek was a team lead and writer for the K-12 CS Framework (2016), the CSTA K-12 CS Standards (2017), California’s K-12 CS Standards (2018), and the CSTA Standards for CS Teachers (2020). He is currently leading a comprehensive, evidence-based revision of the CSTA K-12 Standards, planned for release in summer 2026.

Keisha Tennessee serves as the Coordinator of Computer Science at the Virginia Department of Education, where she leads statewide implementation of the 2024 Computer Science Standards of Learning. Her work focuses on ensuring high-quality instruction that reflects the knowledge and skills students need in today’s rapidly changing digital landscape. With more than fifteen years of experience in education, Ms. Tennessee supports division leaders with implementation guidance, professional learning, and instructional resources that translate standards into effective classroom practice. She is a National Board Certified Teacher and has taught at all grade levels, with much of her career in secondary education (CTE).

Prior to the Virginia Department of Education, Ms. Tennessee served as the Computer Science Technology Specialist at CodeRVA Regional High School and was instrumental in the design and development of the computer science program to increase access and opportunity for secondary students with a specialized focus on computer science. In addition to programmatic leadership, Ms. Tennessee was among the first professional learning facilitators with CodeVA, supporting educators across the Commonwealth in building capacity for computer science instruction. Ms. Tennessee has contributed to publications such as CSTA’s AI Learning Priorities for All K–12 Students and the Virginia Commonwealth University’s Computing in the Commonwealth, a research study on specialized secondary computer science programs in Virginia. Through this work, she continues to highlight the critical role of computer science in advancing emerging technologies and underscores the importance of ensuring that all students develop the knowledge to navigate technology as informed consumers, responsible citizens, and innovative creators.

About the Moderators

Alan Ireland is the Brand Marketing Lead at CodeVA, where he manages email, social, and campaign strategy. He focuses on helping educators and partners understand and engage with emerging topics like AI in schools through clear, practical messaging.

Jaclyn (Jaci) Anderson works at Pitsco Education as a Portfolio Manager, overseeing the development of STEM products and curricula. Previously, she spent a decade in transportation, distribution, and logistics, and she’s proud to bring such industry experience to the world of education. Jaci is driven to bring engaging, hands-on STEM learning to students of all ages.