UC Davis Center for Integrated Computing and STEM Education (C-STEM)

Strengthening TK–12 Math Intervention Under the California Mathematics Framework, held on May 27, 2026, brought together educators, administrators, county office leaders, and statewide partners to explore innovative approaches to mathematics intervention, MTSS, and special education. Hosted by the UC Davis Center for Integrated Computing and STEM Education (C-STEM) with support from California Mathematics, Science, and Computer Science Partnership (#CALMSCS), in partnership with the California Department of Education, Orange County Department of Education California Multi-Tiered System of Supports (CA MTSS), the Placer County Office Of Education Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) Open Access Project, Solano County Office of Education, Travis Unified School District, and participating school districts, the workshop highlighted current challenges, priorities, and opportunities for supporting students through engaging and effective mathematics instruction. The workshop featured statewide, county, and district perspectives on current challenges and priorities in MTSS and special education with a focus on mathematics, as well as collaborative discussions on future partnerships, professional learning opportunities, pilot implementations, and funding possibilities. Participants also explored Key Elements of Effective TK–12 Mathematics Intervention, including standards-aligned and grade-level instruction, hands-on learning experiences using manipulatives, physical movement, coding, and robotics, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), collaborative learning opportunities, and research-informed instructional strategies that support mathematical reasoning, math discourse, student engagement, and equitable access to mathematics. Thank you to all presenters, panelists, educators, and partners who helped make this workshop possible. More information: https://lnkd.in/g_mCiBBd Harry Cheng, Mary Nicely, Caryn Lewis, Ed.D., Tiffany Benson, Susan Sost, Jami Parsons, Ed. D., Rachel Heenan, Ed.D., Emily DesJardins, Troy Tickle, Judianne G., Diana Villanueva, Ed.D., Nikki Greminger, Peter Fortuna, David King, Mauricio Arellano, Stephanie Morgado, Joe Nguyen, Hayley Yasui,Allison Bradford, Annette Roberts Webb, Garth Lewis, Nicola Parr, EdD, Gayle Garbolino-Mojica, Kirk Shrum, Misty Her, Reggie Thompkins, Ed.D., Dr. Stefan Bean, Rindy DeVoll #CSTEM #MathEducation #MTSS #SpecialEducation #Intervention #CaliforniaMathFramework #Robotics #ComputationalThinking #LearningMathWithRobotics

Creative STEAM Learning through Computational Storytelling with Robotics was the focus of today’s workshop hosted by Solano County Office of Education and UC Davis Center for Integrated Computing and STEM Education (C-STEM), with support from #CALMSCS. Educators explored how coding, storytelling, manipulatives, mathematics, and robotics can be integrated to support engaging, hands-on STEAM learning experiences across grade levels. Through interactive computational storytelling activities, participants used coding, robotics, animation, and storytelling to represent mathematical ideas, solve problems creatively, and promote student ownership of learning. Participant feedback highlighted the impact of the workshop: 💬 “I found everything very useful. If I had the program I would use it immediately with my students.” — TK Teacher 💬 “Thoughtfully organized. All instructors were very helpful and kind. This was the most enjoyable, most interesting training I have attended in my past decade teaching.” — 4th Grade Teacher 💬 “I learned how to represent math through coding. We were able to create stories using block coding, and it was scaffolded well enough that people without coding experience were able to create impressive work. I believe my students would love to take ownership of their learning using code.” — Middle School Teacher 💬 “I liked the fact that it was very hands on. It kept me engaged because I had the opportunity to try all of the assignments in real time.” — School Counselor 💬 “The multimodal aspect could be very useful for the students’ learning and cognition development. It was casual, everyone was very open to talk.” — PhD Candidate in Education The workshop demonstrated how computational storytelling and robotics can support creativity, collaboration, communication, mathematical reasoning, and problem solving while making STEAM learning more accessible and engaging for diverse learners. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gPVe2s3S Harry Cheng, Mary Nicely, Caryn Lewis, Ed.D., Judianne G., Stephanie Morgado, Hayley Yasui, Tiffany Benson, Joe Nguyen, Rubén Aurelio, Heather Topacio, Lilibeth Mora, Christine Lucero, Jamie Kearns, Beverly Lehualani Corpuz, HAFSA AKTER, Brett Barley, Cristin Fiorelli #CSTEM #STEAM #ComputationalThinking #ComputationalStorytelling #Robotics #MathEducation #Coding #TeacherPD #K12Education #LearningMathWithRobotics

FREE Workshop: Strengthening TK–12 Math Intervention under the California Mathematics Framework California’s math achievement crisis underscores the urgent need for new approaches to teaching and learning, especially for the most vulnerable and historically underserved students. In 2025, only about 37% of California students met or exceeded state mathematics standards, with proficiency rates dropping to approximately 20% for Black students and 26% for Hispanic students. At the same time, a recent Stanford University study found that the achievement gap between the highest- and lowest-income students grew from 1.9 grade levels in 2009 to 2.7 grade levels in 2024, a 40% increase. The workshop will feature statewide, county, district, school, and teacher perspectives on current challenges and priorities in Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) and special education with a focus on mathematics, while sharing implementation strategies and successful practices. Join leaders from California Department of Education, Orange County Department of Education CA MTSS, Placer County Office Of Education SELPA Open Access Project, Fresno Unified School District, Travis Unified School District, Visalia Unified School District, Alvord Unified School District, UC Davis Center for Integrated Computing and STEM Education (C-STEM), and other district, school, and teacher leaders to explore strategies for integrating diverse Tier 1 mathematics programs with MTSS Tier 2 and Tier 3 intervention and special education through hands-on coding and robotics. 📅 Wednesday, May 27, 2026 🕘 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM 📍 UC Davis Conference Center 🍴 Lunch provided 🎓 Optional 0.6 UC Merced CEU available Learn more and free register: https://lnkd.in/ghHZ2yJj Harry Cheng, Mary Nicely, Caryn Lewis, Ed.D., Tiffany Benson, Susan Sost, Rachel Heenan, Ed.D., Nikki Greminger, Diana Villanueva, Ed.D., Peter Fortuna, David King, Mauricio Arellano, Stephanie Morgado, Hayley Yasui, Joe Nguyen, Judianne G., Allison Bradford, Annette Roberts Webb, Misty Her, Nicola Parr, EdD, Gayle Garbolino-Mojica, Kirk Shrum, Reggie Thompkins, Ed.D., Garth Lewis, Jami Parsons, Ed. D., Emily DesJardins, Yolo County Office of Education, Solano County Office of Education #CALMSCS #MathematicsEducation #MTSS #SELPA #MathIntervention ##SpecialEducation #STEMEducation #Robotics #Coding #ComputationalThinking #CaliforniaMathFramework #EducationalEquity #CSTEM

Free Hands-on Workshop for TK–12 Educators: Creative STEAM Learning Through Computational Storytelling with Robotics. How can storytelling, coding, robotics, mathematics, creativity, and engineering design come together to create engaging and meaningful STEAM, CTE, and Expanded Learning experiences for all students? Participants will: • Build and code robots • Create animations and interactive stories through computational storytelling • Strengthen mathematical thinking, computational thinking, engineering design, creativity, and artistic expression • Learn practical strategies for integrating computational storytelling into STEAM, CTE, and Expanded Learning programs 📅 Friday, May 22, 2026 🕘 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM 📍 Solano County Office of Education, Fairfield, CA 🍴 Free registration with lunch provided Who should attend: STEAM, CTE, and Expanded Learning directors and coordinators, TOSAs, TK–12 teachers, afterschool and summer program instructors, as well as school and district administrators. Learn more about Computational Storytelling and registration: https://lnkd.in/gPVe2s3S Harry Cheng, Mary Nicely, Caryn Lewis, Ed.D., Judianne G., Maria Parker, Stephanie Morgado, Hayley Yasui, Joe Nguyen, Tiffany Benson, Brett Barley,Mele Blackstone M.Ed in EDLP, Rubén Aurelio, Cristin Fiorelli, Heather Topacio, Stephanie Rice, Leslie Beatson, Ed.D., Sheila McCabe, Jennifer Sachs (she/her), Garth Lewis, Damon Wright, Ed.D., Derrick (Derk) Garcia #STEAM #ComputationalStorytelling #Robotics #Coding #Mathematics #ComputationalThinking #STEMEducation #ProjectBasedLearning #ExpandedLearning #CSTEM #RoboPlay #RoboParade

🚀 Hands-On STEM Learning in Action Last week, UC Davis Center for Integrated Computing and STEM Education (C-STEM) conducted a successful one-day workshop on Integrating Physical Computing with Arduino and Robotics in Math, Science, Computer Science, and STEAM Education at the Solano County Office of Education. Arduino, one of the most widely used open-source, low-cost microcontrollers in industry and higher education, provides a powerful platform for sensor-based robotics and real-world learning. Through the user-friendly free curriculum on Introduction to Physical Computing with Arduino (https://lnkd.in/gbPKHpwk), participants engaged in hands-on activities and explored: • Introduction to coding, physical computing, and robotics • Using RGB LEDs to learn the basics of electronics • Integrating sensors for diverse applications • Measuring distance with ultrasonic sensors for real-time data collection and visualization • Creating your own sensor-based robots • Applying robotic sensing to explore geometry concepts • Implementing standards-aligned instructional strategies across math, science, computer science, and STEAM We were especially encouraged by participant feedback: 💬 “I love hands-on and active learning and all the support from the facilitators! Great job!” 💬 “I love that the training allows for step-by-step hands-on learning.” 💬 “I learned sensor-based robotics. Excellent session. Great job, one year of material packed into 5.5 hours.” We are grateful for the support of @CAL-MSCS and the BROADCOM FOUNDATION in sponsoring this event and advancing innovative STEM learning opportunities. Harry Cheng, Mary Nicely, Caryn Lewis, Ed.D., Judianne G., Maria Parker, Stephanie Morgado, Hayley Yasui, Joe Nguyen, Paula Golden, Maria Wronski, Dana Orsini #STEMEducation #Arduino #Robotics #ComputerScience #MathEducation #STEAM #CSTEM #HandsOnLearning #K12Education #TeacherPD

Since 2011, C-STEM Student Awards and Scholarships have recognized middle and high school students for their aspiration and outstanding achievement in the integrated learning of computing and STEM subjects in both formal and informal settings. After a pause in recent years, the awards return in 2026. C-STEM presents the following annually: • C-STEM Scholarship – $500 • C-STEM Award of Excellence • C-STEM Award of Achievement • C-STEM Perseverance Award • C-STEM Girls Leadership Award UC Davis Center for Integrated Computing and STEM Education (C-STEM) is a UC-Approved Educational Preparation Program for undergraduate admission to all UC campuses. Participation in the C-STEM program and receipt of C-STEM Awards are recognized in the UC admissions process as achievements that demonstrate strong preparation for college and careers. Nominations Due: May 1, 2026 More info and submit a nomination: https://lnkd.in/gD92n9ds Harry Cheng, Mary Nicely, Mauricio Arellano, Tiffany Benson, Rachel H. Monarrez, PhD, Reggie Thompkins, Ed.D., John Thompson, Rebeca Andrade, Ed.D., Matt Turkie, Joey Adame, Ramona Bishop, Juan J. Cabral, Caryn Lewis, Ed.D., Angela Lin, PhD, John Roach, Dr. Rosa P., Dr. Alfonso Jiménez, Ed.D., David Vujovich, Ed.D., Jason Farrel, Deepika Srivastava, John Pellman, Ed.D,Judianne G., Joe Nguyen, Randy Clyde, Ed.D., Ashley Higuera-Oakes,Randy Kolset, Greg Miller, Krysta Bradley,Lunden Duenas,Annette Roberts Webb, Marie Martin, PhD, Stephanie Morgado, Nikki Greminger, Damon Wright, Ed.D., Joanne Tucker, Fal Asrani Ed.D., Christina E. Murdoch, Ed.D., Christopher Hoang, Ed.D., Paul Dietrich

Orange Unified Hosts a Record-Breaking 4th Annual UCD C-STEM RoboPlay Challenge On April 9th, 2026, Orange Unified School District celebrated a landmark achievement, hosting Southern California’s largest C-STEM RoboPlay competition to-date. The Orange USD’s 4th Annual C-STEM RoboPlay Challenge, held at El Modena High School, brought together an incredible 230+ students across 57 teams from 3rd through 12th grade. Elementary, middle, and high school students showcased their impressive skills in math, coding, and problem-solving. Under the clock, these young innovators demonstrated remarkable creativity and teamwork, proving exactly what is possible with integrated C-STEM education in classes with dynamic teachers..  We were honored to have Board Member Andrea Yamasaki join us once again to cheer on our students. Superintendent Rachel H. Monarrez, PhD joined the action, connecting with student teams and underscoring the district’s unwavering commitment to pioneering STEM education. This event would not have been possible without the vision and hard work of our dedicated team: Randy Kolset, Greg Miller, Tiffany Lam, Ashley Higuera-Oakes, and Alex Zamora. We also want to give a special thank you to Lisa Green, Executive Director of K-12 Curriculum & Instructional Support, for her leadership, and to Principal Bob King and the entire El Modena High School team for being such gracious hosts and providing an outstanding venue. Our gratitude also goes out to our wonderful volunteer judges from Orange and San Bernardino City USDs. We were delighted to welcome back our industry judge, who traveled all the way from North Carolina for the second year in a row just to support our students. Congratulations to every student, teacher, and volunteer. Your dedication made RoboPlay 2026 a resounding success! UC Davis Center for Integrated Computing and STEM Education (C-STEM) Challenge Competition (https://lnkd.in/ghrHB4gw) is a unique, math-focused, level-playing-field robotics competition for grades 1–12. Designed around math skill levels, RoboPlay showcases students’ real-world math, coding, problem-solving skills, creativity, and teamwork. Teams persevere under time constraints to solve math challenges that integrate engineering design and robotics, revealed on the day of the competition. Harry Cheng, Rachel H. Monarrez, PhD, Matthew L. Witmer, Ed.D., Christina Lin, Dr. Alfonso Jiménez, Ed.D., Mauricio Arellano, Christopher Hoang, Ed.D., Joey Adame, Ellen Palmer, Daphne Russell, Mary Nicely, UC Davis College of Engineering, California Department of Education, CSforALL, Caryn Lewis, Ed.D. , UCR Extension, Alice Pak, Ed.D., Mike Torres, Ed.D, Annette Roberts Webb, Marie Martin, PhD, EAOP UC Davis, Johana Ramirez-Zapien MA; Christina E. Murdoch, Ed.D.; Joe Nguyen; Stephanie Morgado; Joanne Tucker; Tiffany Benson, Joe Erven, Katherine Goyette

Electric RoboPlay Challenge Competition! 🤖✨ Huge congratulations to San Bernardino City USD for hosting a spectacular UC Davis C-STEM RoboPlay Challenge Competition at CSU San Bernardino on March 18, 2026! The energy was electric as more than 115 students from 29 teams showcased their math, coding, and problem-solving skills under time pressure. At each school, all students in participating classes competed in a school-wide RoboPlay qualifier round, and the winning teams advanced to the district level. What makes RoboPlay especially powerful is that it is embedded in the math and CS curriculum for grades 1-12, as well as the expanded learning program, rather than being an extracurricular activity. This ensures equitable access for all students, giving every learner the opportunity to engage, compete, and succeed. Congratulations to all student teams and a massive shoutout to the Robo-builders from Palm Avenue Elementary for achieving rare perfect score and 1st place finish in Division D (5th-6th)! 🏆   A few highlights: ✨ A venue transformed with glimmering lights, balloons, decorations, and festive music, rivaling professional competitions. 🤝 Incredible problem-solving, creativity, teamwork and tenacity from every student involved. 🤖 A surprise appearance by Byte, the SBCUSD STEAM mascot! 📍 A crowd of family and friends cheering on the competitors with bated breath and cameras ready to click. Our hat’s off to the SBCUSD STEAM and Innovation team—Dr. Randy Clyde, Caitlin Arakawa, and the entire team—for providing these students with equitable, unforgettable learning experiences. Kudos to the dedicated C-STEM teachers and volunteer judges from SBCUSD, Sorenson Engineering, Making Hope Happen, Esri, Discovery Ed, and CSUSB for making this possible! Learn more about the challenge: https://lnkd.in/gPXe765j #matheducation #math #cs #robotics #computerscience #stem #stemeducation #steam #engineering #innovation #calmscs #roboticcompetitions Harry Cheng, Mauricio Arellano, Ana Applegate, Randy Clyde, Ed.D., Ted Alejandre, Dr. Sonal Patel, Omar Shepherd, Tonya Coats, Greg Miller, Randy Kolset, Caryn Lewis, Ed.D., Julie Flapan