Lessons and Challenges in Supporting CS Teachers through Local Communities: CS Teacher Leaders’ PerceptionsK12In-Person
Effective professional learning communities (PLCs) are important in supporting teacher learning. This study investigated computer science (CS) teacher leaders’ perspectives on the lessons and the challenges in supporting CS teachers through local PLCs. We purposefully selected ten CSTA chapters and conducted focus group interviews with the chapter leaders between 2020 and 2022. Our findings indicated that these PLCs offered social-emotional support, continual networking opportunities, and rich professional learning resources. Also, they supported CS teachers’ professional identity building, amplified teachers’ voices, and collaborated with other CS organizations. Effective communication, inclusive chapter culture, and accessible and tailored events contributed to CS teachers’ participation. CS teacher leaders faced challenges in distributed leadership and leadership sustainability, chapter identity, and recruitment.