FAQs

Why is Computer Science a priority for Virginia PK-12 education?

• Computer Science is the study of how we use computing devices to solve human problems across distances. Over 70% of jobs in STEM are actually in computing, and the demand is growing. Virginia currently has over 25,000 unfilled jobs (per month) in computer science and this sector is growing at four times the national average. Nationally, there are more than 500,000 open computing jobs. Computational thinking and coding are literacies of the future and every student has a right to access these critical skills and opportunities. CodeVA's mission is to partner with schools, caregivers and communities to bring equitable computer science education opportunities to all Virginia students.

• In 2016, the Virginia legislature passed a law making Virginia the first state in the country to include computer science (standards) as a mandatory part of the curriculum in all public schools. 

• VDOE Computer Science Education Website

What are the benefits of attending more than one conference?

• There is no expectation to attend more than one event! Each conference will follow a similar schedule*, but each event will have a regional feel and change in some ways, based on the session topics and unconference discussions raised by educators themselves. You may find attending more than one will help you do a deeper dive into CS integration or exploration of certain topics and learning nodes.

  • *  For Region 7, CSforVA will not be a stand-alone event, but are directing educators to register for TechSplash 2023 in Abingdon, where CS integration sessions will take place. 

Summer is my time off, are there school year conferences planned?

• We hear you! CodeVA offers year-round professional learning to educators through online courses and fulfilling school or division level requests for personalized PD, which could mean in person sessions. Our staff and facilitation team also present at statewide conferences throughout the year. 

How can I access CS integration resources right away?

• We're so glad you asked! CodeVA has a hub on the GoOpenVA web resource, offered by the VDOE. Access a variety of CS resources, including lesson plans, standards crosswalks, vertical articulation charts, strand pocket guides and more! We invite you to reach out to our Curriculum Team about any resources you don't see that we might support you with! CodeVA also offers virtual CS courses for all grade levels this summer!

What is the CS Ready Schools program?

• Amazon Future Engineer has partnered with CodeVA in an initiative that supports participating schools in developing and implementing a strategic plan for implementing computer science school-wide. Our CS Ready Schools program is a free, staged, multi-year support for VA public schools, with an emphasis on serving Title I and high needs schools in every school division. New schools can join and onboard their Impact Team throughout the year, by completing a short application, after reviewing program components and commitment. We're excited to connect with you!

Is there a way to attend virtually?

• No, these 1-day conferences are designed for in-person participation, held in each superintendent region to allow for wide-spread engagement. Hopefully, one of the events is happening close enough to reach within 1 or 2 hours driving distance! CodeVA does offer virtual CS courses this summer!

Are there scholarships available to cover the registration fee?

• Currently, we are unable to offer scholarships for registration fees. Any updates to our ability to offer sponsorships will be updated here and on our website. We hope that your school division will consider supporting your attendance. Should you need any support sharing with school leadership about the value of attendance, please let us know.

Can I attend partial day at a discounted rate?

• We do not have a pro-rated option for participation, though we recognize you may not be able to participate in the full day's events. The CSforVA conference schedule is outlined here.

Will any session recordings shared?

• Any pre-recorded content shared for the conferences will be made available on this site, at the end of the conference season.