CSEdWeek Spotlight Series: Eridani Alcantar, WeTeach_CS Teacher
The WeTeach_CS program at the Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC) educates, empowers, and inspires K-12 educators and advocates to realize the vision of computer science (CS) for all.
Eridani Alcantar teaches Computer Science at Wisdom High School in Houston ISD.
We caught up with Alcantar to hear about his experiences with the program, whether he’d recommend that other teachers check out WeTeach_CS, and the importance of STEM education.
WeTeach_CS/TACC: What inspired you to teach computer science?
Eridani Alcantar: I transitioned from teaching Mathematics to Computer Science because I saw a great need for someone with the necessary knowledge and skills to oversee the CS program at my school. It’s hard to find qualified, certified teachers to teach CS courses in urban Title 1 schools. The classes are often relegated to being very loosely instructed online CS curriculum courses or glorified typing courses. This kind of cyclic problem inspired me to apply for the CEDI program. (From Garland ISD: “Title 1 school” is a designation based on the number of low-income students who are considered at-risk for school achievement.)
WeTeach_CS/TACC: Do you have a main takeaway from your experiences with WeTeach_CS?
Eridani Alcantar: WeTeach_CS operates like an extended family, with everyone looking out for each other. The program’s leaders really care about strengthening the quality of instruction of CS courses in Texas and across the country. CEDI Director Allen Antoine has been instrumental in growing my skills and career in CS education.
WeTeach_CS/TACC: What advice would you give a teacher new to teaching computer science/STEM?
Eridani Alcantar: Become acclimated to the fast-moving world of CS education. Every year there are new developments that quickly become relevant in the teaching landscape. It’s important to develop an appreciation for these advancements. It’s also great to have a growth mindset and be prepared to learn new things in programming, CS or cybersecurity, since you will need to keep your skills sharp.
WeTeach_CS/TACC: Why should teachers consider WeTeach_CS as a program and philosophy?
Eridani Alcantar: WeTeach_CS offers some of the best professional development curriculum to help teachers pass the certification exam. Their phenomenal instructors help you with everything from earning your certification to implementing lesson plans and activities in your classroom. WeTeach_CS staffers have taught me lots throughout my time as a CS teacher.
WeTeach_CS/TACC: Thank you for your time and contributions to teaching CS and STEM, Mr. Alcantar.