Computer Science Professional Learning Action Network | CS-PLAN

Computer Science Professional Learning Action Network (CS-PLAN) is a hub of computer science professional development for teachers across the K-12 spectrum. With providers such as Code.org, this marketplace for options allows districts to craft a custom course pathway and attend to their capacity-building needs.

Is your district ready for CS-PLAN?

Launched in 2022, CS-PLAN is a partnership between SHU and the CT Department of Education housed here on campus. The program focuses on six principles to help schools become CS ready and scale K-12 CS education:

• Creating a K-12 CS plan for implementation through facilitation of SCRIPT Workshops
• Developing computer science-proficient teachers and leaders
• Creating a school culture that values computer science education as a basic literacy
• Implementing equitable computer science-rich academic learning, including stand-alone courses and CS integration into core curriculum
• Providing supportive resources
• Engaging the community to support these efforts

Who should apply?

CS-PLAN is open to public schools in Connecticut. Alliance and rural school districts receive priority.

Testimonials

"Most training sessions were interactive where we played the role of students which greatly helped me understand the obstacles my students face when learning computer science. "
 
Vincent Mazzotta, Computer Science and Business Education Teacher
Weaver High School, Hartford Public Schools 

“I left with knowledge on how I could immediately implement computer science in my special education classroom. It was also a great way to collaborate not only with educators within my district but also other school districts in the state.”

Margaret Bradley, Special Education Teacher
Barnum School, Bridgeport 

“It's been a long time since I've taken a class or attended a training and then stayed up close to midnight practicing and exploring more about what I learned during the day. I cannot wait for school to resume and to share all that I learned with my colleagues and my students.” 
  
Cheryl Crevier, Grade 3 Teacher 
Classical Studies Magnet Academy, Bridgeport 

Getting ready to apply

• We recommend for districts to identify a CS Team that will create a K-12 CS plan or participate in a CSforALL SCRIPT Workshop. Your team will formulate the school’s strategic plan and oversee its CS implementation.
• Complete a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) provided by SHU upon acceptance by the central office personnel. It will include:
  • Commitment of sending teachers to CS-PLAN
  • Cost share provision

Teachers participating in CS-PLAN have the opportunity to earn credits from SHU for computer science cross endorsement.

Teacher's Application

Central Administration's Application

Application Process

With support from The Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) Sacred Heart will identify school districts across Connecticut for readiness to implement a K-12 computer science (CS) pathway and invite them to be part of the Computer Science Professional Learning Action Network (CS-PLAN).

Districts can apply online.

What is CODE.org?

Code.org partners with select United States-based organizations, such as SHU, to help spread computer science in a local, sustainable fashion. This network of regional partners is working towards the goal that every student in every school should have the opportunity to learn computer science. As an established K-12 computer science hub for their region, regional partners offer professional learning opportunities for teachers and building a strong local community.

As a CODE.org regional partner, SHU:

• Serves as the region’s hub for K-12 computer science
• Builds partnerships with local districts and schools to increase student access to computer science courses
• Organizes and hosts quality, local workshops for teachers implementing Code.org’s high school and middle school programs, with Code.org-trained facilitators
• Provides tools and resources to local school administrators and counselors through specialized workshops
• Establishes, grows and sustains a local community of computer science educators

For more information, contact Susan Auchincloss, Project Director, at 203-371-7800 or auchinclosss@sacredheart.edu.

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