CS Teacher Awards 2025

On June 5th, 2025, was the 6th Annual CS Teacher Awards held at Spasso Italian Grill in recognition for our two winners — Rahmeen Chowdhury for the Early Achievement Award and Maureen Brown for the Sustained Impact Award. Educators help amplify the message of equitable access to CS education in Philadelphia. We loved seeing everyone’s support at the ceremony, and encourage educators to apply for the awards in the upcoming school year.

The awards not only brought teachers and SDP members across the city together, but also allowed them to express their 

One of the highlights of the ceremony (aside from the amazing food) are the wonderful words from both attendees and award recipients. Below are some of the speeches that left the crowd speechless.

Rahmeen Chowdhury's Speech

Rahmeen Chowdhury is a CS teacher at Olney High School, is the recipient of this year’s Early Achievement Award. Below is the speech he gave at the ceremony

Thank you, CS4Philly and Jumpstart Philly CS4All for this recognition, and Principal Roth for the nomination. I’m honored to accept this award on behalf of the Olney High School community. One of the biggest reasons I became a teacher was my high school physics teacher, Mr. Reyes. His class made learning feel real and exciting, not just something you sit through.

I remember how satisfying it was to solve physics problems, how proud I felt building and testing mousetrap cars and popsicle-stick bridges, and how cool it was to use power tools for the first time. Mr. Reyes made science an active, hands-on, and deeply engaging experience. He also set high expectations, pushing us to reimagine what we thought was possible for ourselves. That experience stayed with me and played a big role in my decision to become a teacher and pay it forward.

Now in my ninth year of teaching, and fourth year teaching Computer Science, I’ve come to believe that one of the most important things we can do is: Meet students where they are, and build from there.

At Olney High School, 37% of our students are English Language Learners - 15% higher than the District average. In order to help my ELLs thrive as Computer Science students, I focused on accelerating their academic language skills by providing ample opportunities for academic speaking and writing, and developed bilingual word walls to serve as a visual aid.  We also work intentionally to bring more students into Computer Science, especially those who might not initially see themselves in it.

One approach that’s made a real impact is having upperclassmen support with delivering mini-lessons in 9th grade classrooms and share their own journeys. That kind of peer connection goes a long way. Another key strategy has been working with colleagues who already have strong relationships with students – and leveraging those connections to help students see that Computer Science is worth trying. 

Building an inclusive, sustainable Computer Science program is truly a schoolwide effort.  And at the heart of that effort is this belief: Our students deserve the highest-quality Computer Science education - comparable to what’s offered at the most well-resourced schools.

Before I close, I want to take a moment to acknowledge all the computer science educators and advocates who are here today. Seeing students conquer challenges and realize their potential is the ultimate reward of this job, and fuels our dedication to this work. 

I’m proud to be in your company, and grateful for the collective impact we’re making. Thank you for your time. 

Luke Bilger's Speech

Luke Bilger is the Executive Director of Educational Technology at The School District of Philadelphia. His speech is dedicated to Maureen Brown. 

Maureen began her journey with The School District of Philadelphia in 1989 as an elementary grade teacher, then transitioned to become a computer teacher, a role now known as a Digital Literacy Teacher. Since 2015, in her capacity as an Instructional Technology Integration Specialist, Maureen has been an advocate for integrating technology into K-8 instruction, providing professional development and coaching to teachers. Maureen's dedication has impacted hundreds of teachers and thousands of students. Personally, her parenting advice had an impact on me during a challenging time in my life.  

Her sustained, profound impact, which includes her support for elementary computer science teachers, is why Maureen is more than deserving of this honor.

Michelle Harris' Statement

Michelle Harris is the Executive Director of Educational Technology at The School District of Philadelphia. Her statement is dedicated to Maureen Brown

Maureen doesn't just help people use technology; she inspires them to create with it. Whether she's guiding teachers and students through Media and Design Competition projects or teaching kids to code with Indi and Sphero robots, she's always promoting the powerful idea of being a creative producer of technology, not just a consumer. Her dedication extends to championing Digital Literacy and Computer Science throughout our schools, ensuring everyone has the skills they need to thrive in a digital world.

We're so genuinely honored to have Maureen as part of our team. We couldn't be prouder of her and the incredible work she's accomplished throughout her career. This award is truly a testament to her passion and impact!