K-5 CS Educators, Prepare For “Launch!”
Damian Hopkins
Launch_K5 CS is a dynamic three-day workshop crafted for K-5 educators. This initiative is designed to align with the new K-5 Technology Applications TEKS, set to be implemented by the 2024-2025 school year. Launch_K5 CS integrates computational thinking, computer science, cybersecurity, and AI into core curricula, offering K-5 teachers a chance to enhance their pedagogical approaches.
According to Texas Administrative Code § 231.29, an assignment for Technology Applications, Prekindergarten-Grade 6, is allowed with one of the following certificates:
1. A teacher certificate that matches the subject and grade level of the assignment (Prekindergarten-Grade 6), plus verification of competency to teach Technology Applications.
2. Technology Applications: Early Childhood-Grade 12.
While districts must have a method to determine competency, how they verify it is a local decision. Launch_K5 CS provides districts with a valuable tool to verify the competency of teachers to teach the Technology Application TEKS.
Become a Trainer
Join our Professional Development Academy for a three-day, in-person training session. Choose from the following dates:
· April 2-4: Austin In-person Training
· May 8-10: San Antonio In-Person Training
· May 22-24: Euless (DFW) In-person Training
As a trainer, you’ll receive all necessary resources and materials to conduct training for K-5 educators and earn $3,000 (paid to individual or entity) by successfully training a minimum of 30 educators by the end of February 2025.
Interested in becoming a trainer? Apply today! Please note that an administrator/supervisor letter of support will be required. Support letters can follow this template. Independent contractors can provide a letter of support from a previous client.
By participating in Launch_K5 CS, educators can strengthen their skills, gain valuable resources, and ensure they are fully equipped to deliver high-quality Technology Applications education to their students. Don't miss out on this opportunity to empower your educators and advance STEM education in your district!
Thanks,
— Damian
DAMIAN HOPKINS, Communications Specialist
The University of Texas at Austin | Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC)