Chicago Public Schools Proud to Celebrate recipients for NCWIT Computing Award for Educators

CHICAGO - Chicago Public Schools (CPS) proudly announces World Language Academy High School teacher Katie Roznai and senior Krystal Morales are the 2022 educator and student recipients of the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) Computing Award. The award celebrates self-identifying women, genderqueer, or non-binary educators and students who utilize their efforts to promote gender equity in the computing realm.

“The frequency of our District educators -- and students -- being recognized for their accomplishments is emblematic of the quality education CPS students receive on a daily basis,” said CPS CEO Pedro Martinez. “We are extremely proud of Katie and Krystal's advocacy in making computing an equitable space. Both of them are stellar role models for the District.”

Morales joined “Girls Who Code” as a sophomore knowing very little about computer science. She later participated in robotics and engineering programs with After School Matters.  In college, she plans to major in computer science.

"Admittedly, I didn't know much about coding -- now I love it," said Morales, who plans to attend DePaul University. "I hope to become an inspiration for young girls who have an interest in computer science."

Roznai, who has been a chemistry and computer science teacher at World Language since 2018, previously taught math and chemistry at Peace & Education Coalition Alternative High School. She was surprised when she learned the news that she will be recognized.

“I am excited to be presented with the Aspirations in Computing Educator Award. I work to create opportunities that I wish I had in high school,”  said Roznai, who is also the facilitator for the “Girls Who Code” club for the Little Village Lawndale High School Campus. “I want my female, non-binary, and trans students to feel like they have a space and a voice in the computing/technology world, and I hope I achieve some of that through my work with my Exploring Computer Science class & Girls Who Code club. I am honored that my work and advocacy is being recognized by the National Center for Women & Information Technology.”

Since 2011, more than 800 educators have been recognized by the NCWIT and have received more than $236,000 in professional development funding to improve their computing education skills.

These honors follow recent news that 13 CPS teachers and two principals were named as finalists for Golden Apple Awards.

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