Shaping the Future of K-5 CS: Transforming Education Through an Equity-Driven Framework and Expert Collaboration

Significant barriers to equitable access and belonging in computer science education persist, disproportionately affecting Black, Latinx, Indigenous students, and students with disabilities. In response, BootUp's research team partners with higher education researchers to develop an equity-driven framework for K-5 CS curriculum redesign and professional development.

Heather Cunningham and Lien Diaz's paper "Shaping the Future of K-5 CS: Transforming Education with Equity Driven Framework and Expert Collaboration," that has been selected to receive the Exemplary Paper Award in the RESPECT 2025 – Experience Reports - Work-In-Progress Track, builds a framework that intentionally centers race, disability, and intersecting identities, and embeds diverse academic perspectives into teaching practices.

Leveraging research and fostering collaboration, the framework translates theory into practice, ensuring equitable participation in CS education. BootUp's partnership goals with research institutions are to drive systemic change, increase belonging and prepare diverse learners for success in K-5 CS education. Check out their paper here to learn more!