CS4NE

In this episode of CS4NE, Kimberly Ingraham-Beck interviews Shaun Young from the Nebraska Department of Education about the state’s efforts to support computer science education. Shaun shares updates on professional development initiatives with CodeHS, the new 6-credit supplemental endorsement for computer science, and upcoming revisions to standards and annual reporting requirements. The conversation highlights the state's progress toward meeting the CS graduation requirement and the resources available to help teachers succeed.

In this episode of CS4NE, hosts Kimberly Ingraham-Beck and Guy Trainin interview Abby Langner from Westside High School about the power of physical computing in the computer science classroom. Abby explains how tools like robots, micro:bits, and peripherals can help students engage in hands-on learning that connects coding to real-world applications. She offers practical advice for teachers looking to get started, including how to choose devices, manage costs, and align activities with curriculum and safety considerations. The episode highlights how physical computing enhances student motivation, creativity, and deeper understanding of CS concepts.

In this solo episode of CS4NE, Dr. Guy Trainin addresses the growing question: “Why teach computer science in the age of AI?” He presents three compelling reasons—understanding the AI-driven world, gaining cross-disciplinary skills, and developing essential computational thinking. Guy explains that while AI can assist with code generation, deep understanding of coding, algorithms, and data remains critical for meaningful interaction with technology. The episode makes a strong case for continuing CS education to empower students as informed, ethical, and capable contributors in an increasingly AI-integrated society.

In this solo episode of CS4NE, host Kimberly Ingraham-Beck shares her journey into cybersecurity education and why it has become one of her biggest passions. She highlights the critical demand for cybersecurity professionals, explores free classroom-ready resources from Cyber.org, TeachCyber.org, and CodeHS, and recommends professional learning opportunities like free bootcamps and certificates. With practical tips for both new and experienced teachers, Kimberly encourages educators to integrate cybersecurity into their curriculum and inspire the next generation of digital defenders.

In this episode of CS4NE, hosts Guy Trainin and Kimberly Ingraham-Beck interview Jeff Ingraham, longtime educator and COO of Prairie STEM, about his decades-long work integrating technology and robotics into classrooms. Jeff shares how tools like Micro:bits, Dash and Dot, and Bee-Bots can be used across grade levels to teach coding through physical computing. He emphasizes the power of hands-on learning, encourages teachers to dive into CS education even if they’re new, and highlights resources like code.org, MakeCode, and CodeHS. The episode underscores the importance of curiosity, collaboration, and adaptability in computer science education.

This kickoff episode of CS4NE introduces hosts Guy Trainin and Kimberly Ingraham-Beck as they preview the season’s focus on supporting computer science education across Nebraska. They discuss upcoming topics like physical computing, gamified learning, and pedagogy, and emphasize the importance of continuing CS instruction in the age of AI. Kimberly shares her personal experience feeling isolated as a solo CS teacher and how professional communities like CSTA and NETA have helped build connection and support. The episode encourages listener engagement and reinforces the podcast’s mission to build a collaborative, accessible CS education community statewide.

In this episode of CS4NE, hosts Guy Trainin and Kimberly Ingraham-Beck interview Lucas Hartman, an instructor at Metropolitan Community College and former high school computer science teacher. Lucas discusses the curriculum he developed for the Nebraska Department of Education to support the state’s new computer science graduation requirement. The course includes six engaging, hands-on modules that cover everything from digital citizenship and cybersecurity to computational thinking and programming, and it's designed to be accessible for teachers and students of all experience levels. Lucas highlights the flexibility, open-access nature, and teacher-friendly structure of the curriculum—making it a valuable tool for schools statewide.

In this episode of CS4NE, hosts Guy Trainin and Kimberly Ingraham-Beck check in with Jamie Schluter, a business teacher from Southern High School who is teaching computer science for the first time. Jamie candidly shares the challenges of stepping into a new subject area, including time management, grading, and unfamiliar content, while also highlighting her growing confidence and enjoyment of topics like digital citizenship. The episode provides a realistic look at the experiences of “transplant” teachers navigating Nebraska’s new CS education requirements, offering encouragement, relatability, and insight for others starting their own journey.

In this episode of CS4NE, hosts Guy Trainin and Kimberly Ingraham-Beck interview Adam Schwaninger, a former middle school art teacher who successfully transitioned into high school computer science instruction. Adam shares how his background in art fosters creativity and problem-solving in his CS classroom and discusses the challenges of learning new content and coding languages. He emphasizes the importance of transferable teaching skills, hands-on learning, and connecting with supportive communities like university cohorts and tech departments. The episode highlights the diverse pathways into CS education and encourages educators from all backgrounds to consider joining the growing field.

In this episode of CS4NE, hosts Guy Trainin and Kimberly Ingraham-Beck speak with Kristeen Shabram, a veteran middle school computer science teacher at Westside Middle School in Omaha. Kristeen shares her passion for engaging students by connecting CS to real-world careers and emphasizing foundational skills like problem solving and debugging. She highlights the importance of allowing students to experience failure and learn through hands-on, creative projects such as building robots and apps. Kristeen also discusses her leadership in the CS education community through CSTA and her dynamic Girls Who Code club, which adapts to students’ interests—from programming to building Bluetooth speakers. Her advice to aspiring CS teachers centers on finding strong professional communities and embracing the unique energy of middle school learners. The episode underscores the value of both in-school CS instruction and extracurricular opportunities to build excitement, inclusion, and confidence in computing.