Making Computer Education Accessible for all NYC Public School Students
I had the privilege of photographing Valerie Brock, Senior Implementation Manager for NYCDOE Computer Science for All/Office of Student Pathways for Computer Science Education for NYC Department of Education, New York City Public Schools. She shared some of her story.
“I am a teacher but for the past five years, I have had a managerial position. Although I didn’t seek this role out, due to the computer science initiative in NYC public schools, I moved into the role. Interestingly, my original plan was law school. I saw education as the backup plan, but I’m grateful to be here.
In this work, I’ve met a lot of amazing people, incredible teachers and students. We do a lot of anti-racism work and that has changed my whole personality. I am grateful for trying to improve as a human every day while being an ally for students with disabilities. I wish I would have had the tools that I have now when I started teaching. But through this journey, I have become a more mindful educator.
Previous to my current role, I served as an elementary classroom teacher for students with disabilities, and a STEM and technology specialist in K-8 schools throughout NYC for over 13 years. My work has and is serving underserved and underrepresented students.
In May, I had the privilege to be interviewed by EdSurge magazine, about my journey with Computer Science education in NYC Public Schools. It was a wonderful opportunity to share our work around Minecraft Education. Working with Minecraft, we have made computer science education available and much more interesting to our students. Here is a quote from my interview with EdSurge about our success.”
“Our initiatives have flourished, with around 300 educators from approximately 250 NYC Public Schools becoming skilled on the Minecraft Education platform through our programs. This success has facilitated new collaborations, extending student benefits beyond initial expectations.”
“It is an exciting time. I am so honored to be heading up a movement in STEM education in NYC schools and to offer all students the opportunities and benefits of STEM education!
When I scheduled my headshot with Alissa, I needed a boost. The session turned out to be so much more than just photos. I felt special. I enjoyed the time given for the makeup and hair session. The makeup artist was very caring. The atmosphere was very calm.
Alissa is so structured in the way she had me pose. She lights up as she works. She has an amazing passion for her job. She is a natural! When I saw the digital photos, I felt like a princess. I said, ‘Is that me?’ It was such a beautiful picture.
My headshot was perfectly timed for the interview with EdSurge magazine, too!
I felt so embraced by the whole experience, Alissa did that. I wish I could go to her studio and have headshots every week.”