Committee Volunteers

Equity Strand Lead, 2025 Conference Committee

Julie York

My CSTA Story

Julie York helped found the main chapter of CSTA out of a desire to meet other teachers in the state and grow connections with people outside of her school district and classroom. As one of the only computer science teachers in her building, Julie really wanted to gain more networking opportunities with computer science teachers throughout the state and country. What really attracted her to CSTA was the idea that it is not just a state program but a program that extends across the country and even to other countries around the world. Eventually, she was honored to be selected as a 2023 CSTA Equity Fellow and got a chance to develop her leadership skills and meet others in the country working on issues she is passionate about. As someone who loves community and building communities within her own life, Julie really enjoys being part of an organization that emphasizes building a strong network of communities throughout the country. The opportunities that CSTA presents, like being on the conference committee and having chances to speak at different locations and with different organizations, are incredible!

My Story

Julie York has been teaching computer science and media electives at South Portland High School in South Portland, Maine since she was hired in 2002. Hired to teach Video Production, she has gone on to develop and maintain many new classes for the school community that include Animation & Game Design, Digital Graphics, Advanced Technology, and Introduction to Computer Science. Community and joy are two main focuses in her life and teaching: with representation, inclusion, involvement, creating, passion, empathy, and diversity at the forefront of her planning and development. She is married with two children and has two businesses she founded and continues to run for fans of anime and gaming in Maine: Weekend Anime & Games and PortConMaine.

Awards Committee Member

Juan Marquez

My CSTA Story

Juan is a teacher that enjoys using all available tools for success. He discovered how technology can give voice and ownership to students’ learning, but soon, he felt lonely. No many teachers like to try new things, even less technology. When he heard about a group of teachers that help each other for CS learning, teaching and implementing it in the classroom, he didn’t hesitate from joining. This has been 6 years and he is now an active CSTA member.

My Story

Juan is a passionate teacher who strongly believe in the Power of Yet and growth mindset. He lives by these believes inside an outside the classroom. Origanlly from Mexico, Juan came to the US and became a bilingual teacher. He has taught in Title I schools with major focus on ESLs. “One thing I really enjoy from teaching school year is witnessing the whole transformation that students go through. Watching them how things were at the beginning and then at the end of the year is so rewarding.”

Local Representative, Conference Committee

Kelly McFall

My Story

Kelly spent her first 20 years teaching math and computer science at Las Vegas Academy of the Arts, a performing arts magnet school in Downtown Las Vegas. In the spring of 2022, I decided to embark on a new challenge by accepting a computer science teaching position at Global Community High School in Las Vegas, NV, a high school for newcomers to the United States. She is always looking for ways to best meet the educational and emotional needs of her students, including learning technological vocabulary in Spanish and several other languages. Kelly is grateful to be serving as a Local/Regional Member of the CSTA 2024 Conference Committee.

9-12 Subcommittee, Conference Committee

Krystal Ingraham-Beck

My CSTA Story

My first teaching job was as an Instrumental Music teacher at a high school. I have always been techy and had my first programming class in high school. I incorporated as much tech as I could with my music students, but I wanted to do more. I found a high school CS job and needed help. My local CSTA chapter helped me get started and has been a wonderful resource for me over the years.

My Story

Kimberly received her Bachelor in Music Education degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), her Masters in Secondary Education with an emphasis in Music and Technology from UNO, her Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from Doane University, and her Masters in Computer Science Education from UNO. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Education degree from Midland University in Innovation and Leadership. Kimberly taught Instrumental Music at Omaha Bryan High School for 6 years. Kimberly is currently the Computer Science Teacher and Exports Coach at Gretna High School and Gretna East High School. She is in her 7th year there. She is the Past President of the Metro Omaha chapter of the Computer Science Teachers Association.

Equity Subcommittee Member, Conference Committee; Awards Committee Member

Kingsley Onyekachi Okpeh

My CSTA Story

Kingsley joined CSTA in 2015 and has since enriched his knowledge of computer science education. With a background in computer science education and technology, his passion for this field has driven him to become a prominent CSTA/CS Equity Advocate for the Computer Science Teachers Association, where he champions diversity and inclusion. He considers himself fortunate to be a part of CSTA’s mission and is inspired every day by the dedication of CSTA members, both inside and outside the classroom, to support computer science teachers and their students. Kingsley has also volunteered in numerous CSTA programs, actively promoting equitable access to computer science education. His commitment to breaking down barriers and ensuring that students and educators enjoy equitable access to the world of technology remains unwavering. Kingsley continues to make significant contributions to the tech industry while fostering collaboration among CS educators and reaching underserved populations.

My Story

Kingsley’s journey spans business growth and passionate advocacy for computer science education. He’s dedicated to underserved communities, actively promotes computer science education, and fosters tech camaraderie. He has led growth initiatives that break boundaries and redefine success. His remarkable ability to innovate and adapt has been instrumental in expanding markets and propelling organizations to greater heights. He collaborates actively with non-profit organizations, utilizing his skills and network to drive meaningful change and uplift communities. His journey stands as a testament to his passion for collaboration and knowledge-sharing.He is resolutely devoted to bridging the realms of technology, education, and business. Kingsley harnesses the power of digital platforms to craft impactful marketing campaigns, thereby expanding brand reach and influence in the digital age. All the while, he serves as a dedicated CSTA volunteer and advocate, poised to contribute tirelessly to the growth of computer education.

Review Chair, Conference Committee

Kristeen Shabram

My CSTA Story

CSTA is a big part of my professional development as a CS Educator. CSTA is an amazing community of passionate educators willing to share knowledge, expertise, and resources on a variety of CS education topics. I am so grateful for all the resources and events that CSTA provides to its members. I joined CSTA in 2016, and since then I have served on the conference committee, the board of directors, and volunteered for a variety of CSTA events. Because I’m so involved in CSTA, I’ve had the opportunity to work and learn from some of the most amazing CS educators from around the world. CSTA is truly my second family and I appreciate everything that they have given to me to help me become the best CS educator I can be. This is my CSTA Story!

My Story

Kristeen Shabram is a middle school teacher at Westside Middle School in Omaha, NE. She teaches 7th grade Business, Technology, and Computer Science. Kristeen has been a member of the CSTA Annual Conference Committee since 2018. She is a member of the CSTA Metro Omaha Chapter.

Admin/Coaches Subcommittee Member, Conference Committee

Kristi Hingerty

My Story

Kristi Hingerty is an instructional specialist for Virginia Beach City Public Schools, serving in the Department of Teaching and Learning. She supports Title I schools with STEM, including computer science educational resources and instructional technology resources. Her passion is collaborating with colleagues and community members to create authentic meaningful learning opportunities for students to help prepare them for their future goals and dreams. Dr. Hingerty earned her Ed.D. in educational leadership from Liberty University in 2022. Her dissertation topic focused on improving inequitable learning in early childhood education through the use of digital resources. She hopes to continue providing future ready learning opportunities for all students by combing her passion of STEM education and equitable learning practices. In her spare time, Kristi enjoys camping with her family and two Boston fur babies, reading, music, and trying new recipes.

DEIA Chair, Conference Committee; Chapter Leader Committee Member

Krystal Chatman

My Story

Krystal Chatman is an Instructional Technology Facilitator in the Jackson Public School District in Jackson, Mississippi. She has been an educator in the biomedical research industry and classroom for 14 years, teaching and training students from high school to undergraduate, graduate, and physician students. She is a graduate of Millsaps College, earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology, and obtained a Master of Science in Biological Sciences from Mississippi College. In her current role, she provides support to all PK-12 teachers to help them maximize technology integration into their daily instructional practices, impacting learning for over 18,000 students.

Middle School Subcommittee Member, Conference Committee

Kurt Tholking

My Story

Kurt has 20+ years experience teaching computer science. He currently teaches multiple levels of computer science to grades 8-12 at St. Mark’s School of Texas.

Admin/Coaches Subcommittee, Conference Committee

Laura Gray

My CSTA Story

Laura first learned of CSTA when she was assigned to teach AP Computer Science two weeks before the 2016 school year started. It might have been in a panic, but she immediately joined and hasn’t looked back since. Laura loves the amazing pd and opportunities presented by CSTA to help her grow to provide engaging and equitable experiences for cs students.

My Story

Laura Gray began as a math and cs teacher at GSMST in 2015. In 2022, she accepted a position as an AI and CS instructional specialist for Gwinnett County Public Schools, supporting over 125 teachers. She continues to support AP CS A teachers via her website, www.apcsaexam.org. Laura has written and developed curriculum standards for three new CS courses for Georgia’s Department of Education. She was named PAGE STAR Teacher for GCPS and was the 2021 GSMST Teacher of the Year. She also served on GCPS’s district facilities and resources equity team, which focused on fair access to technology. In 2023, she was awarded the Georgia affiliate NCWIT Aspirations in Computing Educator Award. Laura earned a computer information systems degree from Indiana University (2003) and an MAT from the University of Georgia (2015). Before becoming a teacher, she had a ten-year career at PwC, Hospira, and General Electric.

In his free time, he loves volunteering, traveling and tutoring at-risk kids.

6-8 Subcommittee, Conference Committee

Langa Tsimba

My CSTA Story

Langa began his computer science journey in 2021 during a School District professional development summit. He was a five-year US History teacher who wanted to do something new in his classroom during Covid. Once Langa started coding, he never turned back and decided to pursue CS Education as the new track!

My Story

Langa became an educator as a career switcher in 2014. He started as a teacher assistant and then went on to teach U.S. History for five years at a Alternative School. When, Chesapeake Public Schools expanded their Computer Science program to the middle school level he joined the first group of teachers and developed the curriculum, and is presently working s a VEX Robotics coach and middle school Computer Science teacher in a Title 1 school. Chesapeake Public Schools. He has worked for organizations such as BLAST Program, taught robotics for a district-wide Summer enrichment camp and has built a Robotics Club from the ground up. Langa currently serves as a member of CSTA Virginia.

In his free time, he loves volunteering, traveling and tutoring at-risk kids.

Policy Committee Member

Lawrence Tanimoto

My CSTA Story

I first became involved with our local Puget Sound (WA) chapter as a volunteer and later coordinator for our programming contest. Because I lived and worked in one of the nation’s tech hubs, I mistakenly thought that Washington’s CS education system must be one of the world’s best. Since retiring from teaching in 2021, I have learned much, am increasingly dismayed by the poor state of CS education in Washington and throughout much of our country, and want to help.CSTA improve all of this.

My Story

Otherwise retired, I now focus on activities to help advocate for K-12 CS education. From 2014-21, I taught computer science as a CTE teacher at Ingraham HS, an urban, mid-sized, multi-cultural school in north Seattle. Prior to teaching, I worked for 28 years in the international computer industry – the last 18 with Microsoft (Office Division). Am originally from Hawaii.

Posters Chair, 2025 Conference Committee

Leah Aiwohi

My CSTA Story

Having been a CSTA member from when she began teaching CS at the high school, Leah has also established a CS Honor Society on campus and most recently, have been contributing as a CSTA Equity Fellow.

My Story

Leah’s true joy is being in the classroom having taught at the elementary, middle and high school levels. Classes Leah currently teaches are APCSP, Digital/Broadcast Media, STEM and Cybersecurity. Co-lead for her school’s STEM Cadre, Leah is also the lead GenCyber Teacher for Hawaii.

Professional Development Committee Chair

Lea Sloan

My CSTA Story

In 2003, Lea started teaching high school computer science. At that time, she created her teaching materials online. However, she was excited and relieved when CSTA was founded in 2004, providing her with more resources just when she needed them. Today, she serves as the Director of Professional Development at CodeHS and co-leads the CSTA Professional Development committee.

My Story

Lea Sloan, Director of Professional Development Lea has been a leader in educational technology, curriculum development, and professional development for nearly 20 years. Prior to that, she was a classroom teacher for 14 years and taught high school computer science courses from Intro CS with HTML and JavaScript, Programming Graphics in ActionScript, Java Honors as prep for AP CSA, and AP CSA in Java. She has developed dozens of online and blended courses and content for teachers and students in educational technology and computer science. She joined the CodeHS team in early 2018 and now leads the professional development team. She also serves as co-chair on the CSTA Professional Development committee that oversees the approval of CSTA-endorsed computer science PD providers.

Past Chair, 2025 Conference Committee;2024 Conference Committee Chair

Lisa Bohaty

My CSTA Story

I started my CS journey as a K-5 Computer Science teacher. I first attended CSTA Baltimore and loved learning from other CS educators around the country. I have continued to serve on the CSTA conference committee for the past three years.

My Story

I am a K-12 Computer Science teacher in a small rural school in Nebraska. I love helping students learn and explore using computer science.

Professional Development Committee Member

Lori Goldade

My CSTA Story

While working as a district technology director for a rural school district, Lori stepped into the classroom to teach computer science in 2011. After graduating with a Master of Science in educational technology and being a recipient of the NCWIT Aspirations in Computing award, Lori joined CSTA in 2017 to find connection with a broader community of computer science educators. As a doctoral candidate in educational leadership, Lori focuses her research on CS education in marginalized communities. She remains committed to making computer science accessible and equitable as the Professional Learning Product Manager at Code.org.

My Story

Prior to coming to Code.org as the Professional Learning Product Manager, Lori spent 20 years as a district technology director and high school computer science teacher in a rural K12 district and the last 5 years creating PD experiences for computer science teachers. Lori has presented on numerous topics including CS pedagogy, JavaScript, Python, Java, Cybersecurity, Exploring Computer Science, and AP CS Principles. As an NCWIT Aspirations in Computing award recipient, Lori continually strives to help women and marginalized populations find their voice in CS fields.

Awards Committee Member

Lisa Schwartz

My CSTA Story

Lisa presented at her first CSTA Conference in 2022 in Chicago and has volunteered on the Awards Committee. She likes being a part of the CSTA community because it brings educators together around CS.

My Story

Lisa Schwartz is a Regional Educational Technology Coordinator for the Learning Technology Center (LTC). Before joining the LTC, she spent 19 years in the K-12 classroom. Lisa is passionate about meaningful professional development and creating teacher and student leaders. She facilitates professional learning events regionally and statewide; provides consultation and support to school districts related to digital learning and technology integration, and develops instructional materials for school administrators, teachers, and students throughout the region and the state.

Elementary Strand Lead, 2025 Conference Committee; Elementary Subcommittee Member, 2024 Conference Committee

Paige Besthoff

My CSTA Story

Paige has been a CSTA member for seven years and served as an elementary subcommittee representative for the 2023 and 2024 CSTA conference committee, a reviewer for the CS Teaching Excellence Award, has been the co-chair of CSTA New Jersey CSPDWeek for the past three years, is currently the Vice President of CSTA New Jersey and she was previously the Secretary of CSTANJ. The friends she has made through CSTA are priceless. Paige says, “CSTA has made me a better teacher. I am no longer alone in my journey. As CSTA reminds us, we are part of the world’s largest CS department.”

My Story

Paige Besthoff has been a Computer Science teacher for 25 years, teaching elementary Computer Science for 9 of those years. Formerly from NYC, she currently teaches in NJ. Paige facilitates workshops in partnership with Code.org, TCNJ Central New Jersey Computer Science Education Hub and Rutgers CS Hub. Paige is a frequent presenter at CSTA, ISTE, and other CS and technology conferences across the country presenting the CSTA and NJ standards and sharing sample lessons. Paige is a recipient of the 2023 CS Teaching Excellence Award.

Equity Subcommittee, Conference Committee

Marisa Laks

My CSTA Story

In 2021, Marisa decided to teach herself how to code. Enjoying the challenge, she decided to move from teaching math to teaching computer science. She joined CSTA later that year and completed a program at CUNY Hunter College for teachers who wanted to become certified computer science teachers. Since then, Marisa has been an active member in the CSTA NYC chapter and a 2023 – 2024 CSTA Equity Fellow.

My Story

Marisa Laks is a teacher and the school programmer at the High School for Environmental Studies, a public school in New York City. She has taught computer science for 4 years and has been teaching for 19 years overall. Marisa has a Masters in Secondary Mathematics Education, an Advanced Certificate in Computer Science Education, and will complete a Certificate of Advanced Study in School Building and District Leadership in June 2024. As the programmer in her school, she has been working to increase participation in computer science through expanding course offerings and holding school-wide events. This past summer, she helped facilitate computer science training for non-CS teachers around New York City.

Admin/Coaches Strand Lead, Conference Committee

Maggie Chenoweth

My CSTA Story

Maggie became a member of CSTA in 2017 when she began teaching AP Computer Science Principles. Since then, she has taken an active role as a Chapter Leader with CSTA West Virginia and a volunteer on the conference committee. Maggie has been a member of the Ad Hoc and High School Subcommittees and currently serves as the Admin/Coaching Strand Lead for the annual conference. Through these experiences, she’s witnessed firsthand the incredible impact CSTA has on educators and students alike, and she is grateful for the opportunities and connections it has provided.

My Story

Maggie is Cabell County’s Academic Specialist for High School Mathematics. Prior to this position, she taught math and computer science at Cabell Midland High School and was an instructor at Marshall University. Maggie is a National Board Certified Teacher, Apple Learning Coach, and Prisms Paladin. In 2018, she was honored as Cabell County’s Teacher of the Year and recognized as a Diversity Champion by Code.org, making her school the first in West Virginia to enter Code.org’s CS Principles Hall of Fame. Maggie is an active member of the education community, contributing to initiatives such as the West Virginia Leaders of Numeracy and presenting at the California STEAM Symposium. She is passionate about promoting computer science education and is thrilled to serve as CSTA’s Admin/Coaching Strand Lead for the annual conference.