A Decade of CodeVA: Pioneering Computer Science Education and Transforming Communities
4 December, 2023
Introduction:
In the span of ten years, CodeVA has evolved from a visionary initiative to a trailblazing force in K-12 computer science education. From its humble beginnings in 2013 to the present day, the organization’s commitment to addressing the digital divide has shaped the landscape of education in Virginia. This journey is not just a testament to CodeVA’s resilience but a celebration of its achievements, partnerships, and the indelible impact it has had on students and educators across the state.
2013: Foundation and Partnership
CodeVA’s inception in 2013 was marked by a commitment to address the gap in access to computer science learning in K-12 education. Starting strong, CodeVA became the first regional partner of Code.org, setting the model for nationwide state partnerships. This collaboration laid the groundwork for a decade of impactful work.
2014-2016: Legislation, Robotics, and Statewide Implementation
In 2014, CodeVA achieved a significant legislative victory, advocating for a law that allowed Computer Science to count as a science credit for high school diplomas.
The first cohort of 24 educators received training. This was the first cohort in the Exploring Computer Science (ECS) program, an NSF funded training and curriculum program in computer science education that is a north star for computer science education programs. To date, CodeVA’s ECS program is the longest running statewide implementation of the project
Voicing support for the integration of Computer Science into Virginia’s Standards of Learning in 2016, CodeVA successfully worked with the state government to pass a law mandating Computer Science be integrated as a core subject in Virginia’s Standards of Learning for all K-12 students.
The organization’s impact extended to Virginia’s high school robotics programs, with the RVA Coder Collective and Tech Disaster teams both participating in the FIRST Robotics competition, and a team from Virginia took home the world championship title.
Further in 2016, the Virginia Tobacco Commission’s support opened doors for economically disadvantaged regions of the state – the tobacco farming and coal belt areas of Virginia – making a notable impact on teacher training as the first grant of its kind to support the development of CS education in rural schools.
2017-2018: Expanding Reach and Government Recognition
CodeVA reached new heights in 2017 by training 1000 elementary school teachers and establishing its first hub in Abingdon, VA. The organization played a pivotal role in developing the first Virginia Standards of Learning for CS Education. The partnership with Richard Bland College of William and Mary further empowered teachers through free college credits.
Governor Northam’s tour of The Digital Dominion in 2018 marked a significant milestone, showcasing how computer science was driving education and industries across Virginia. The launch of the CS Ready program and the expanded hub model strengthened CodeVA’s commitment to equitable CS instruction. Combined with Full Steam Ahead finding a home with CodeVA, these years marked an inflection point for the organization.
2019-2020: Leadership in Cybersecurity and Pandemic Response
CS Education Week in 2019 highlighted Virginia’s leadership in cybersecurity, with significant support from Amazon Future Engineers for the CS Ready program.
In 2020, facing the challenges of the pandemic, CodeVA re-platformed its programs to virtual formats and launched Project Snail Mail, addressing the digital divide with creativity and innovation. Snail Mail was mailed for free to students around the state as a way to integrate distance learning, computer science, and MAIL! And come on, who doesn’t love getting mail!
The receipt of $1.3 million from Amazon Future Engineers underscored the impact of CodeVA’s programs on Title 1 and marginalized schools. Focusing on equity has been an important part of CodeVA’s mission from the start, and in 2020 Eureka Workshop partnered with Performing Statistics and RISE For Youth to create an interactive mural titled Freedom Constellations: Dreaming of a World Without Youth Prisons. Teens from Eureka Workshop collaborated on programming and building interactive elements of the mural which included augmented reality, and reactive light & sound.
2021-2022: Surviving and Thriving
Coming out of the pandemic, CodeVA not only survived but thrived. The hiring of an Advancement Director in 2021 marked a new chapter. Concurrently, the organization contributed to a state landscape report on CS implementation. This led to a state action plan to address computer science education needs across Virginia.
In 2022, Virginia educators were first able to pursue micro-credentials, a time- and money-saving system of continuing education, supported by a new state law (written by CodeVA founder Chris Dovi). A federal grant and partnership with the Virginia Tribal Education Consortium brought another significant milestone, expanding computer science and STEM education access to Virginia’s seven tribal nations.
2023: NSF Grant and Looking to the Future
In 2023, CodeVA was awarded its third NSF grant. The CS for CTE: Endorsement, Expertise, Empowerment grant project funded by the National Science Foundation NSF#2219770 develops and researches an exciting year-long course for Career and Technical Education (CTE) teachers in the state of Virginia. As part of their role as computer science teachers, participants will acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to teach advanced high school computer science coursework, such as AP Computer Science Principles, AP Computer Science A, and Advanced Programming.
Building resources for teachers and students is CodeVA’s longest-term goal. By providing free or low-cost resources, camps, workshops, and webinars, we are constantly re-affirming our vision for a computer science ready future.
A Bright Future Forward:
CodeVA’s remarkable journey over the last decade reflects a commitment to innovation, equity, and transformative education. From legislative victories to impactful partnerships, CodeVA’s legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of Virginia’s educational landscape. As we look to the future, CodeVA serves to inspire teachers, students and state leaders, driving positive change and ensuring that the next generation is well-equipped for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.