Through our partnership with Code.org, we are bringing high-quality, computer science-focused training to educators across Arizona. Code.org’s program supports K–12 teachers and principals in their efforts to develop the fundamental knowledge and strategies they need to create the next generation of coders. If you’ve ever considered teaching computer science or know other teachers who might love it, Code.org’s professional learning programs are an ideal place to begin.

Code.org has helped prepare nearly 100K elementary, middle, and high school teachers to offer computer science, 98 percent of whom say they would recommend the program to another teacher.

Upcoming Workshops

In partnership with Code.org, Arizona educators have the opportunity to take the first steps in bringing computer science to their schools. Check out our upcoming CS workshops at Arizona Science Center.

What can you expect from a Code.org Workshop?

• Engaging workshop experiences
• Teaching and learning in context
• A collaborative, participant-centric approach
• One cohesive set of resources

CS Fundamentals

For educators who have never taught computer science.

April 4, 2025 | 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m

This introductory workshop is designed for elementary educators new to teaching computer science who want to explore how to begin teaching the CS Fundamentals curriculum. Join your peers and experienced facilitators to get a hands-on introduction to computer science, pedagogy, overviews of the online curriculum, and teacher dashboard, as well as strategies for teaching “unplugged” classroom activities.

Cost

$20 | Includes general admission ticket to Science Center

Register Here

CS Fundamentals Deep Dive

For educators who have already taught Computer Science Fundamentals. 

December 6, 2024 | 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 

The Deep Dive is designed for elementary educators who have started teaching CS Fundamentals but want to more deeply understand Code.org’s approach to teaching CS and need strategies to fully implement the curriculum. Developed with Code.org’s professional learning values in mind, the 7-hour Deep Dive workshop provides teachers with a hands-on learning experience with other like-minded teachers. Teachers are given the space to work through individual challenges in carefully crafted sessions led by experienced facilitators.

Cost

$20 | Includes general admission ticket to Science Center

Register Here

Year Long Programs

CS Discoveries, CS Principles, and AP CSA professional learning programs are year-long programs consisting of a 5-day workshop held during the summer, followed by monthly sessions (3 hours) throughout the school year. Each of the follow-up sessions are held on a Saturday and engages participants in continued learning of the curriculum, pedagogy, and resources needed for a successful year. Additionally, the AP CSA professional learning program has a two-day workshop in May to deepen content knowledge and prepare for the following year.

Applications for the 2025 summer CS Discoveries, CS Principles, and AP CSA cohorts will open January 2025.

Scholarships 

The cost of the year-long program is $1,500 per participant. However, thanks to corporate sponsors, we are able to reduce the cost to $700 per participant. There are a limited number of full scholarships available for teachers who meet at least one of the following criteria:

• A minimum of 50% of the student population qualify for free/reduced lunch services.
• A minimum of 50% of the student population are underrepresented minorities.
• The school is classified as rural per NCES (locale codes 32, 33, 41, 42, or 43), AND a minimum of 40% of the student population qualifies for free/reduced lunch services.

Computer Science Professional Development Week 

Join us for a week of CS Professional Development for K-12 educators, brought to you by the Arizona Department of Education (ADE), the Arizona Science Center, Grand Canyon University, University of Arizona Data Sciences Academy, and the Arizona CSTA Chapter.

Arizona K-12 teachers can choose one, week-long, PD workshop strand and participate in networking and fun throughout the week! Workshops include CS Fundamentals, CS Deep Dive, CS Discoveries, CS Principles, AP CSA, and more! 

Mark your calendars! Our 2025 CSPD Week will tentatively be held June 16-20.

Did you know?

• Public school districts and charter schools (grades 9–12) can apply for grant dollars through the Computer Science Professional Development Fund. 
• Arizona recently approved two computer science endorsement options for educators - and  Code.org CS Professional Learning course hours are eligible to count toward requirements.
• Arizona adopted K–12 Computer Science standards in 2018.

As the Regional Partner, Arizona Science Center provides K–12 teachers opportunities to engage in professional learning that will enable them to effectively teach computer science.

• Professional Learning Program
• CS Fundamentals
• CS Discoveries
• CS Principles
• AP CSA