Fostering the Future of Computer Science Education
The Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) Miami chapter is dedicated to supporting and advocating for K-12 computer science (CS) educators in the Miami area. We aim to build a strong, inclusive community for CS teachers, providing them with the resources, professional development, and connections needed to deliver high-quality, accessible, and inclusive computer science education for every student. We strive to ensure that all students are prepared for a world powered by computing.
Our Mission
The mission of CSTA Miami is to build a vibrant and collaborative community of computer science educators committed to increasing the presence, quality, and accessibility of computer science education across all K-12 schools in Miami-Dade County. We are focused on professional growth, promoting equity and inclusion in CS classrooms, and advocating for supportive policies to empower teachers and inspire the next generation of innovators.
Meet the Team
Michael Sakowicz, President
Michael Sakowicz serves as the President of CSTA Miami, leveraging over a decade of specialized experience in CS/ESE education and a 25-year legacy in Web and Graphic Arts. A recognized Teacher Leader of Excellence and a Miami-Dade County Teacher of the Year, Michael has been a consistent advocate for pedagogical innovation. His career is marked by his status as a multiple-time grant recipient and his receipt of the Excellence in Computer Science Teaching Award. Under his leadership, CSTA Miami bridges the gap between high-level advocacy and the practical, evolving needs of the modern classroom.
Mark Godinez, Vice-President
Mark Godinez serves as Vice President of CSTA Miami and is a Lead Teacher of IT in South Dade. A recognized leader in K-16 student engagement, Mark’s impact spans from primary education with the Migrant Education Program to secondary and collegiate pathways. His commitment to excellence is evidenced by his 2023 Regional CSTA Teaching Excellence Award and his distinction as a 2022 National NCWIT Educator of the Year. Having recently earned a Graduate Certificate in CS K-12 Teaching from the University of Florida, Mark focuses on expanding the CS footprint in South Florida through the establishment of the National Computer Science Honor Society and the integration of Scholastic Esports.
Tatenda Mahaka, Secretary
Tatenda Mahaka serves as the Secretary of CSTA Miami, where she champions the belief that technology should be a bridge, not a barrier. Tatenda specializes in building high-level partnerships and programs necessary to empower educators and scale access to Computer Science. Her work exists at the intersection of innovation and equity, focusing on developing the systemic support teachers need to thrive. As a board officer, she is dedicated to fostering a transparent, connected community that creates work-based learning opportunities and tech-driven success for all learners across the district.
Delmar Wilson, Treasurer
Delmar Wilson serves as the Treasurer of CSTA Miami, bringing seventeen years of experience as a veteran educator at Miami-Dade. Currently the Mathematics Department Chair and ESSAC Chairperson, Delmar’s leadership extends from the classroom to his role as a doctoral researcher focused on minority representation in STEM. He founded his school’s AP Computer Science Principles program and the Computer Science National Honor Society, transforming CS into a student-favorite discipline. Guided by the philosophy of John Dewey, Delmar is dedicated to modernizing pedagogy and ensuring CSTA Miami’s resources effectively prepare the next generation of diverse tech leaders.
Catheline Ahmed-Vargas (Cathy), Student Engagement/K-16 Liaison
Catheline "Cathy" Ahmed-Vargas serves as the K-16 Liaison for CSTA Miami, bringing over 20 years of expertise across the educational spectrum. Currently an Associate Instructor and Academic Manager at Miami-Dade College, Cathy oversees curriculum and faculty development, bridging the gap between secondary and post-secondary success. Her distinguished career includes five years at iPrep Academy and a research background with NASA’s Life and Spaceflight Program. A PhD candidate in Educational Leadership, Cathy’s research focuses on making advanced robotics accessible to K-12 students. As K-16 Liaison, she leverages her experience with industry giants like NASA, Apple, and Microsoft to build equitable pathways and robust partnerships for Miami’s CS community.
Carlos Vazquez, Outreach and Engagement Coordinator
Carlos Vazquez serves as the Outreach and Engagement Coordinator for CSTA Miami, bringing over 20 years of expertise in K-12 and Higher Education. Starting his career as a New York City Teaching Fellow in high-need schools, Carlos has a deep-rooted passion for educational equity and digital skilling. As a former director of nationally recognized workforce programs, he recently launched one of the first Latino-led Registered Apprenticeship Programs in Artificial Intelligence. Carlos specializes in translating complex technical concepts into accessible community initiatives. A first-generation college graduate with degrees in Computer Science and Education, he leverages his experience across New York, San Francisco, and Miami to build inclusive partnerships that close the skills gap for all learners.