I am a Middle School Math Teacher at Poe Classical on Chicago's far southside. I am a Google Certified Trainer, Gemini Certified Educator, and future Google Certified Innovator, I have over 15 years of experience, including roles as a STEM Manager and Curriculum Designer. I hold a Master’s in Educational Leadership, and champion equity and accessible technology. I have presented at ISTE LIVE, IDEACon, and TCEA, creating sessions filled with laughter and community. Fun fact: I have graduated from The Second City Comedy Improv program and co-host the YouTube podcast "Ain't Gonna Hurt Nobody."

Emily Flach is a Regional Educational Technology Coordinator for the Learning Technology Center, serving Illinois’ Southern region. She facilitates professional learning events and provides consultation and support to school districts related to digital learning, technology integration, and technology infrastructure. Shaped by her experience as both a technology director and a high school history teacher, she brings a unique perspective to edtech. She understands the transformative power of technology in education, but also champions the importance of intentional and secure integration.  Fueled by strong coffee, a good sense of humor, and a belief in the power of connection, Emily is excited to share her insights and maybe even learn a new tech trick or two from you!

Alicia Gomez is a dedicated educator with 28 years of experience in Chicago Public Schools. Transitioned from a Pre-K Teacher into current role as a Computer Science Content Specialist for the STEM Department’s Computer Science team. She supports teachers and students in integrating computational thinking and physical computing into classroom instruction. With a deep-rooted passion for Early Childhood education, her mission is to demystify the four pillars of Computer Science for our youngest learners, ensuring they have a strong foundation for the future. 

LeeAnn is a Professional Development Specialist at CodeHS, where she designs and delivers professional learning helping educators confidently bring computer science into their classrooms. She leads custom workshops and presents at conferences across a range of CS topics, and is passionate about helping teachers navigate fast-moving topics such as AI with practical, classroom-ready strategies. LeeAnn also develops PD courses, including the new Teaching AP Cybersecurity Course. She has nearly a decade of classroom experience at the middle and high school levels, teaching several programming languages. LeeAnn holds an MA in Secondary Education, doctoral-level coursework, and graduate certificates in Instructional Design and Learning Design and Leadership.

Steph is an educational leader with 8 years of classroom experience and 8 years in EdTech innovation. She bridges district strategy and classroom realities, advocating for equity through intentional AI use. Her mission is to shift education from AI consumption to creation, empowering students and educators to build their own digital tools. A marathoner and dancer, Steph is reimagining the future of education.

I am a Chicago Public School teacher of 23 years. A number that is high enough to make you believe I might know a thing or two but then you meet me, and you'll begin to suspect I might be lying about the number.  If you have questions, feel free to reach me at drlaw@cps.edu. This is assuming our email system isn't part of the next round of budget cuts.

Havee Makedon is a Computer Science and Technology Teacher at Glen Crest Middle School, where he teaches Python programming, web development, data science, artificial intelligence, machine learning concepts, digital citizenship, and technology ethics through hands-on, project-based learning. Previously, he taught Computer Science and Technology in Chicago Public Schools, integrating engineering design, robotics, 3D printing, laser cutting, web design, business concepts, and digital marketing into real-world student projects. He holds a Master of Arts in Teaching from Northeastern Illinois University, a Master of Arts in Logic and the Philosophy of Science from Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership at Aurora University.

Todd plays a critical role in implementing teacher training programs for DPI as part of the University of Illinois. His primary focus is to support the Computer Science Teaching Endorsement from University of Illinois. This includes recruitment, guidance, and even tutoring. He also is Swift certified and works to provide professional development for other teachers to earn their Swift certification. Lastly, Todd provides connections between teachers, students, industry professionals, and other opportunities in CS Education.

Before working at DPI Todd was a teacher in Chicago Public Schools teaching Computer Science and History. He also is the co-founder of the Illinois High School Esports Association.

Christy McGraw has been teaching Technology to kindergarten through fourth grade students for 19 years. Digital literacy, internet safety, robots, coding, electricity, GPS technology, infrared and ultraviolet light, and 3D printing and design are some of the topics covered in class.  She finds joy using her Cricut to create monthly bulletin boards, and she loves finding uses for the 3D printer.

When not in school, she enjoys spending time with her soon-to-be-double-digit granddaughter, reading, and finding new projects to create and print. She is always hoping a CH-47 Chinook flies over her house.

Joan Mendelson is a former software developer who transitioned into education to shape the next generation of problem solvers. With 18 years of experience teaching K–8 Computer Science within Chicago Public Schools (CPS), she now focuses on professional development for educators and supporting district-wide K–8 robotics initiatives. Joan is a passionate advocate for interdisciplinary integration, leveraging student voice to foster critical thinking, creativity, and genuine joy in the CS classroom.

Stephanie Mitchell is the Director of Innovation and Instructional Technology at Effingham Unit 40. Most recently, she survived—and thrived through—the process of creating Effingham’s master AI blueprint, proving that you can build a scalable AI plan without losing your sanity.

When she isn’t translating machine learning jargon into plain English, you can find her tormenting her family with trivia, planning a trip to another national park, or explaining to her family for the hundredth time what she actually does for a living.

Seven years of helping educators bring STEM, computer science, and engineering to life through hands-on learning. As a Senior Education Partnerships Manager at Sphero, I've partnered with schools, districts, and organizations to create engaging learning experiences that have reached millions of students. I'm passionate about making education accessible, meaningful, and fun - because the best learning happens when curiosity leads the way.

Jessica is a Solution Architect with extensive experience empowering educators to meaningfully integrate technology into their classrooms. Before joining Sphero in 2025, she served as a Technology Integration Specialist and Tech Coach at Illing Middle School in Connecticut, where she was named the 2020-21 District Teacher of the Year. Since 2015, Jess has shared practical strategies for tech integration with educators, administrators, and innovative thinkers around the globe. She loves tinkering, design thinking, video production, historical fiction, improv, and coffee!

Jess has spent the past 16 years in education in the classroom and beyond. She has had the ability to work with curriculum development for The National Park Service, NASA, and blogged for PBS. Her work has taken her from sunny Southern California, to small town Alaska, and finally to her home at NIU. She currently works on curriculum development with NIU STEAM, focusing on Math, Science, Mental Health, and more. Her curriculum is focused on whole student development and exploration. If you want to learn more or have questions feel free to reach out at jwinn@niu.edu.

Sessions: 

Tech-Driven Teaching: Bridging Code, Circuits, and Artificial Intelligence for Student Engagement (Wed, Jun 17th - FULL DAY)

Yaman Yu is an incoming Assistant Professor in the Information School at the University of Washington. She has over 5 years of experience in youth digital safety, privacy, and human-AI interaction, with a focus on how teenagers engage with generative AI, AI companions, and online platforms.

Her research has contributed to youth-centered AI safety frameworks, risk taxonomies, and practical tools, and has involved collaborations with companies such as Google and Character.AI, as well as conversations with policymakers and educators.

Email: yamanyu2@illinois.edu