|
Empowering Teachers, Shaping the Future of CS Education: Meet Jake Baskin, Executive Director of CSTA
Jake Baskin, Executive Director of the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) in Chicago, is dedicated to fostering a strong community for K-12 computer science educators.
What is your personal/professional story? What key moments in your life led you to where you are today?
As a brand-new high school computer science teacher, I faced many challenges. My first classroom was long, narrow, and filled with rows of bolted-down desks and huge CRT monitors (never enough for every student). These monitors provided ample hiding spots, especially for students in the back rows. I’ll never forget one evening during my second week of teaching. While updating software, I discovered a stack of popped-off keys and a keyboard with elaborate curse words spelled out on each row. High school students are fun, aren’t they? They possess such creative minds that they apply them in...very interesting ways.
The point is that it was clear from the start that I needed support as a CS teacher. Despite working with an amazing group of dedicated teachers and administrators, I was the only computer science teacher. As a one-person department, I felt isolated. I needed support, guidance, resources, content, and connections with other CS teachers. I had questions that couldn’t be answered within my school or district. Thankfully, the Chicago Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) chapter was there to provide the answers, support, and community I sought. During my first chapter meeting, another member introduced me to an early version of Exploring Computer Science. Three days later, my “How to use a word processor” class was instead asking, “What exactly is a computer?”
Attending that first CSTA Chicago meeting truly changed my life.I met passionate computer science teachers who supported my involvement in curriculum development and paved the way for me to re-launch the organization as its Executive Director in 2018.
Where does your passion to serve come from?
My passion stems from my experiences as a high school teacher and working with teachers across the US. Teaching is demanding. It requires a deep understanding of not only the subject matter but also the students. Becoming a great teacher takes time, and society often undervalues the skills, knowledge, and abilities required of teachers. At CSTA, we strive to live by our values, with “Teachers First” as our top priority. My passion lies in creating moments that honor and respect teachers, whether it’s recognizing and amplifying their expertise, providing relevant professional development opportunities, or simply hosting events that celebrate their work.
How can GlobalMindED help you reach your goals?
At CSTA, our goal is to ensure that all computer science teachers, especially newcomers, can connect with a community of fellow educators who can support their journey and reduce feelings of isolation. Organizations like GlobalMindED support our goal by connecting these educators to CSTA.
| 
