Official Press Release
TAMPA, FLORIDA, UNITED STATES – Alterna announced today the establishment of the Computing Honor Society (CHS) at Robinson High School in Tampa. This initiative represents Alterna’s continued commitment to empowering students with essential technology skills through locally-run groups designed to represent schools while upholding the values of openness and adaptive learning the organization represents.
The Computing Honor Society will provide students with opportunities to participate in computer-related projects including workshops, hackathons, competitions, and hands-on experience in coding, software development, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Additionally, the Society will be able to provide members with learning sessions to support students at all computational skill levels while fostering teamwork and community engagement.
“These activities are designed not only to enhance technical skills but also to promote vital competencies such as teamwork, critical thinking and creativity, while simultaneously increasing community involvement,” Alterna Director Sebastián Camargo Marín shared with a local student journalist at Robinson “Learners who are looking to get connected with the wider computer science industry as well as learn high-demand skills on tech should join.”
The Robinson High School chapter will be supported by local computer science teacher Bradley Watson, who will serve as the Society Operator. “Working the competitions that are out there in the world with the kids, collaboration, working with other people, bringing a project to fruition—that’s all good stuff,” Watson said, expressing enthusiasm about the program’s potential.
Santiago Rios, a local sophomore student at Robinson High School, will join Camargo Marín in leading the local chapter. Together, they aim to create an inclusive environment where students can develop technical skills crucial for success in our increasingly digital world.
“I have always been driven to impact my local community; giving my other peers a chance to learn the valuable skill of computing, while also providing them a space where they can let their creative ideas run wild is something that I look forward to,” Camargo Marín said.
Alterna’s Computing Honor Society represents a significant extension of the organization’s educational mission, creating structured pathways for students to engage with technology while preparing for future academic and career opportunities. The program emphasizes accessibility for all students regardless of prior experience.
“The club will ensure that every student, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to learn and thrive in an increasingly tech-driven world,” Camargo Marín added. “No matter if you are an expert or a complete newbie, the only thing required from you is your desire to learn.”
The establishment of CHS is one step in Alterna’s mission to bring computer science literacy and student-centered learning to audiences of all sizes, in all locations. The Society at Robinson will serve as the first testing grounds for further iterations of community engagements integrated with Learner’s traditional learning ecosystems.
Quotes extracted from Coulon, Carson. “Calling All Coders for the Computing Honor Society!” Knight Writers, Robinson High School, 11 Apr. 2025