Integrated STEM Education in Virginia: CodeVA Elementary Coaches Academy

The Commonwealth of Virginia is one of the largest employers of STEM professionals in the United States. CodeVA, a nonprofit computer science advocacy organization, worked with Virginia legislators to develop the nation’s first K-12 computer science framework and has trained cohorts of elementary school teachers to integrate computer science and STEM content into all subject areas. This study explored the impact of CodeVA’s Elementary Coaches Academy on elementary educators’ STEM self-efficacy, teaching practices, and perceptions about the need for diversity in STEM fields. Findings showed that hands-on STEM and computer science experiences and familiarity with curriculum standards had significant positive impact on teacher self-efficacy, changes in classroom practices, and confidence in the ability to reach diverse students. The collaborative, inquiry-based design of the CodeVA Elementary Coaches Academy proved effective and can serve as a model for elementary teacher STEM professional development.