Press Release

CS4Philly 2026 Computer Science Teacher Awards Honor Exceptional Philadelphia Educators

Philadelphia, PA – May 2026 – Now in its seventh year, the 2026 CS4Philly Computer Science Teacher Awards celebrate exceptional educators who are expanding access to high-quality computer science (CS) education and inspiring the next generation of technology leaders across Philadelphia.

“These educators embody the CS4Philly mission of ensuring all students have meaningful opportunities to engage in computer science,” said Naomi G. Housman, co-founder of CS4Philly. “From elementary classrooms to high school robotics labs, they are building confidence, creating pathways, and helping students see themselves as creators and innovators.”

The 2026 Early Career Achievement Award for high school educators recognizes Tasmara Davis, computer science and math teacher at Arts Academy at Benjamin Rush. Tasmara has built a high-expectations classroom where students develop confidence through growth-mindset teaching, formative support, and authentic problem solving. Beyond her classroom, she has expanded CS access for underrepresented students through recruitment, leading districtwide professional development for teachers, and CS education advocacy with CSTA and other community partners.

The 2026 Sustained Impact Award for high school educators honors Katharine Lanpher, Computer Science CTE teacher at George Washington High School. Katharine has transformed computer science from a niche elective into a thriving schoolwide program through project-based learning, robotics, and competition opportunities. Her teaching empowers underserved students through hands-on learning, peer mentorship, and career-connected experiences that have led to city- and state-level success.

The 2026 Early Career Achievement Award for elementary educators goes to Ava Roberts, digital literacy teacher at Hon. Luis Muñoz-Marín Elementary School. Ava has reimagined her school’s computer program as a vibrant hub of innovation, using hands-on, student-centered instruction to make technology exciting and accessible for young learners. Her advocacy has expanded student access to esports and industry-standard tools such as 3D printing, while helping students envision future STEM pathways.

The 2026 Sustained Impact Award for elementary educators recognizes Vera Hromadka, digital literacy teacher at Eleanor C. Emlen School. Vera’s creative teaching has made computer science engaging for all learners, including students in Life Skills and Autistic Support classrooms. Her school earned district recognition for achieving one of the highest percentages of student coders, reflecting the enthusiasm and participation she has cultivated.

This year’s Gritty Award, recognizing extraordinary perseverance and commitment to student success, honors Paula Miller, AP physics and robotics teacher and robotics coach at Abraham Lincoln High School. Through resilience, visionary leadership, and interdisciplinary innovation, Paula has transformed a robotics program into a regional powerhouse, helping students achieve championship-level success by applying computer science to engineering, physics, and real-world problem solving.

“This year’s awardees demonstrate what’s possible when computer science education is rigorous, inclusive, and grounded in real student opportunity,” said Daniel Moix, Associate Teaching Professor of Computer Science at Drexel University and Co-Principal Investigator for Jumpstart Philly. “Their work is opening doors, expanding access, and helping shape the future for Philadelphia’s students.”

The CS Teacher Awards are presented by CS4Philly in partnership with Jumpstart Philly CS for All, CSTA Philly, and the Philadelphia STEM Ecosystem–CS Workgroup. Awardees will be recognized at the annual celebration on June 2, 2026, at Spasso Italian Grill, alongside Philadelphia’s broader computer science educator community.

Media Contact:
Naomi Housman, Co-Founder, CS4Philly
📧 naomi@cs4philly.org | 📞 215-776-6663

About CS4Philly

CS4Philly is a collective impact effort that brings together K–12 education, higher education, industry, government, and community partners to ensure equitable access to high-quality computer science education for all Philadelphia youth.

About Jumpstart Philly CS for All

Jumpstart Philly CS for All is a research-practice partnership working to make equitable, high-quality computer science instruction available to all Philadelphia students with support from the National Science Foundation and PAsmart.

About CSTA Philly

CSTA Philly is the Philadelphia chapter of the Computer Science Teachers Association, supporting K–16 educators through collaboration, professional learning, and advocacy for computer science education.