Focus Area

Computer Science & STEM

Resources, professional learning, and support for fostering robust STEM programs and knowledgeable computer science educators

Coding the Future of K-12 CS & STEM

In an increasingly tech-driven world, computer science and STEM education are vital for all K-12 students. These fields foster critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and personal agency while providing essential skills for emerging careers. Beyond coding and math, they also offering a foundation in data analysis  and logical reasoning – skills valuable across all disciplines.

The LTC is committed to supporting educators in bringing CS and STEM to their classrooms. We leverage our professional partnerships and statewide network of educators to make integrating these subjects empowering and standards-compliant – both for educators and school districts.

Our team provides resources, training, and practical support that builds capacity and confidence among CS educators. Our summer CS professional learning programs – including CS PD Week – and networking group also provide a supportive environment where educators can gather resources, connect with peers, and discover strategies for bringing STEM and CS learning to life.

Support Areas

Standards and Curricula

Implement and align your CS & STEM curricula with both state and national computer science standards, ensuring high-quality learning experiences that meet educational and workforce demands.

Professional Learning and Networking

New and experienced CS & STEM educators are welcome to take part in immersive professional learning experiences and networking opportunities – all at little-to-no cost

Upcoming

CS & STEM Events

ROE 28 CS Roundtable

| Free

Leaders and teachers from ROE 28 school districts will come together to discuss current CS programs and explore opportunities for support.

Sarah Phelps
Sarah Phelps
Program Manager, Computer Science and STEM, Learning Technology Center

Celebrate National Poetry Month with Code.org Code with Poetry

| Free

April is National Poetry Month! Join us for a virtual workshop to learn how Code.org’s Code with Poetry unit can engage students with computer science concepts in your ELA class! Participants will have the opportunity to experience the Code with Poetry lesson, learn how to access all the teacher resources to support implementation, explore the dashboard, and learn more about the other CS Connections units that support meaningful integration of CS in the content areas. This resource is a great fit for students in grades 3-8th grade.

Sarah Phelps
Sarah Phelps
Program Manager, Computer Science and STEM, Learning Technology Center

CS & STEM Networking Meeting

| Free

Calling all K-12 computer science and STEM educators! Join your peers from across the state each month for an informative, engagement-rich networking meeting centered on topics that matter most to you.

Sarah Phelps
Sarah Phelps
Program Manager, Computer Science and STEM, Learning Technology Center

Take Coding to the Sky with Drones!

| $260

Come discover what it takes to bring drones into the classroom as a part of this hands-on workshop. Participants will have the chance to ask questions, code their own drone, and learn about essential drone terminology, safety issues, legal concerns, operational requirements, and drone model options. Participants will also walk away with a Robolink Codrone of their own to make implementing their newfound drone knowledge even easier.

Ben Sondgeroth
Ben Sondgeroth
Lead Regional Educational Technology Coordinator | Northern Illinois, Learning Technology Center

Roll into the Future: Sphero Bolt+ and the Power of Play

| $20

Get ready to roll into the future of education with Sphero Bolt+! This workshop invites you to unlock the power of play and explore the endless possibilities of this cutting-edge robotic ball.

Emily Flach
Emily Flach
Regional Educational Technology Coordinator | Southern Region, Learning Technology Center
Supporting CS Teachers with Intensive, On-Going Support

Illinois & Missouri Code.org Regional Partner

As the Code.org Regional Partner for Illinois and Missouri, the Learning Technology Center (LTC) takes great pride in facilitating professional learning programs that significantly enhance the capabilities of both current and aspiring computer science educators. By offering scholarships, these invaluable programs become accessible at little-to-no cost, enabling educators and their districts across Illinois and Missouri to cultivate the expertise necessary for delivering a comprehensive and enriching computer science curriculum.

This collaboration underscores the LTC’s dedication to fostering educational excellence and equity, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to explore the vast potential of computer science.