Jumpstart Philly is pleased to congratulate Dr. Debora Carrera for being selected as a recipient for the Andrew N. Farnese, Esq. Humanitarian Award, presented by Columbus Forum Lodge 1492.

As Philadelphia’s Chief Education Officer, Dr. Carrera has fostered computer science education in the city through initiatives such as the 7th annual computer science experience, inspiring over 100 high school students. Her dedication is evident, serving the School District of Philadelphia for over 27 years, where she contributed to student-based coding events, connecting coding with economic opportunity, and expanding “career and technical education” (CTE).

Dr. Carrera serves on the Jumpstart Advisory Board. As former Assistant Superintendent of Learning Network 1, She was instrumental in enrolling our first cohort of Jumpstart teachers. Her support of equitable computer science education for all Philadelphia students was invaluable to the success of our program.

As Chief Education Officer, she helped implement year-round education opportunities for students, out-of-school programs, and modernizing school buildings. Additionally, she was a keynote speaker for Drexel University School of Education’s Class of 2024 Commencement.

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Jumpstart Philadelphia CS for All is a project led by Drexel University in collaboration with the School District of Philadelphia and regional partners. This project is funded by the National Science Foundation and PAsmart grants. 

This project aims at making computer science education equitable, inclusive, and easily accessible for all Philadelphia students through training and preparing educators for CS certification.  Jumpstart Philadelphia helps address a critical problem, which is the lack of equitable access to certified CS educators within the city.