Take Five with Madeline Franco: Computer Science Teacher at Whitney Young High School

Meet Mrs. Madeline Franco, a Computer Science teacher at Whitney Young High School, and the 2023-24 regional and state winner of the Teaching Excellence Award from the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) and Infosys Foundation. This award honors K–12 computer science educators whose commitment and excellence have aided the development of computer science education and technology. 

Before joining the District in 2013, Mrs. Franco worked in the field of Computer Science, where she trained others on how to use new software and other platforms. This experience sparked her interest in becoming an educator, leading her back to CPS, where she was once a student herself. 

At Whitney Young, Mrs. Franco teaches students in grades 7 - 12 how to apply the tenets of Computer Science to their everyday lives. In addition, she works to ensure that her experience as a Latina in STEM will encourage both girls and students of color to explore the field. She has seen this happen with several former students who have gone on to pursue degrees in Computational Computer Science after graduating from high school. 

Learn more about Mrs. Franco below!

How do you feel about being recognized by the Computer Science Teachers Association and Infosys Foundation? 

I first received an award that said I was a regional winner. But then, a few months later, I learned I Was also the regional winner for the State of Illinois. That one was a big shocker for me! It blew my mind and left me feeling accomplished. 

What is your primary goal for your students? 

My biggest goal is to let them know that anyone can be a computer scientist. Anyone can learn about computers, and it's not just programming. There's learning about data analysis, maintaining databases, web design, app development, computer engineering, and so much more. Computer Science is a big umbrella, and there's a lot that students can explore. That's why, when it comes to teaching these concepts, I work to incorporate a lot of variety.

Why is Computer Science important? 

Technology is a big part of our children's lives, so it’s important to teach them about the different platforms that are available and how to properly use them. We also want our students to become innovators and question how they can make technology better and more accessible in the future. 

What motivates you to continue your work as an educator? 

I’m a lifelong learner. That's what keeps me motivated. Students come to me interested in topics we haven’t yet covered, and we start exploring. I then develop lessons on those topics, and seeing the kids engaged in their learning and learning alongside them is what really fuels me.

What do you like to do outside of work? 

I love tinkering with stuff and making DIY crafts. I've made things out of epoxy, I'm trying to learn how to crochet, and I’ve even built cabinets.