Diane Gielas is an experienced educator, curriculum writer, and professional learning facilitator based in Colorado with over 30 years in K–6 education. With a background rooted in literacy and classroom teaching, Diane brings a relatable and encouraging voice to computer science professional development, especially for teachers who are new to CS and unsure where to start. Her journey into CS began not as a specialist, but as an ELA teacher who saw how creative, empowering, and inclusive coding could be for all learners. That curiosity quickly turned into a passion for helping students and teachers alike discover the joy and value of computer science.

Diane has designed and facilitated curriculum that weaves together storytelling, creativity, and computational thinking through Scratch-based lessons. She has brought hands-on robotics and coding experiences to Title I schools, integrating computer science with social-emotional learning to make concepts both meaningful and accessible. In addition, she supports early-career educators by serving as an induction mentor, helping them build inclusive, confident classrooms through collaborative coaching and personalized guidance.

Her career includes leadership in schoolwide SEL programs, student-led green screen news
broadcasts, and cross-grade instruction from 1st to 6th grade. Now, as a CS professional development facilitator, Diane brings energy, empathy, and authenticity to every session, meeting educators where they are and helping them see how computer science can connect with what they already do best.

Diane loves spending time with her husband and four college-aged children, two dogs, and a close-knit circle of family and friends. Whether in the classroom or around the dinner table, she leads with curiosity, care, and a belief that learning is for everyone.