The Computer Science Teachers Association – South Dakota Chapter (CSTA-SD) is proud to recognize Tina Belden as the 2025 Computer Science Teacher of the Year for South Dakota. Belden received her award on Monday, April 28, 2025 at the TIE Conference in Rapid City, SD. (Please click here for award photo.)
Belden shares her expertise between Dakota State University (DSU) in Madison and the students in the Estelline School District. At DSU, she teaches “Introduction to Instructional Programming,” a course designed to equip future educators with the knowledge and confidence to integrate programming into their classrooms. This course introduces a variety of programming languages and educational tools, spanning primary through secondary levels. Through hands-on activities, educators gain practical experience, ensuring they feel comfortable implementing these technologies to enhance student learning and engagement.
At Estelline, Belden teaches a wide range of courses for students in grades 9-12, both in-person and online. Her course offerings include Computer Hardware and Software, Workplace Technology, Photography I, Business Computer Applications, Advanced Computer Applications, Cybersecurity, Introduction to Information Technology, Youth Internship, Youth Apprenticeship, Visual Media Design, Broadcast Technology, Web Design, Media Production, and Service Learning. This extensive course load showcases her dedication to ensuring students have access to valuable computer science education regardless of their learning format or scheduling constraints.
Belden is an innovative computer science educator who has dedicated her career to fostering creativity, problem-solving, and project-based learning among her students. Through her work, she has empowered students to engage with computer science in meaningful ways, ensuring they develop both technical skills and a passion for the field.
This award will be presented at South Dakota TIE 25 (Technology in Education), honoring her exceptional contributions to computer science education.
Recognizing Excellence in Computer Science Education
The Computer Science Teacher of the Year award honors educators who provide extraordinary opportunities for students to explore and succeed in computer science. This recognition highlights Tina Belden’s commitment to making computer science accessible, engaging, and impactful for all learners.
Belden was nominated by her peers across the state for her dedication to developing engaging and inclusive lessons. One of her most notable teaching accomplishments includes a game development project, where students used programming languages of their choice—such as Python, Scratch, and JavaScript—to build interactive games. This project not only introduced students to coding concepts like loops, conditionals, and functions but also encouraged them to think critically, collaborate, and troubleshoot in a real-world context.
“What makes Tina’s teaching stand out is her ability to inspire students through hands-on, creative learning experiences,” said a fellow educator. “She encourages students to experiment, problem-solve, and push their limits in ways that make computer science both fun and meaningful.”
Shaping the Future of Computer Science Education
Beyond the classroom, Belden actively supports computer science education in South Dakota by mentoring fellow teachers and advocating for equitable access to technology. She ensures that students have multiple avenues to engage with computer science by offering flexible learning opportunities, including summer classes, 8th-grade courses, online learning, and independent study options.
“As a teacher, I advocate for equitable access to technology by meeting students where they are—both in their learning journey and their personal interests,” said Belden. “By taking the time to understand what excites and motivates each student, I tailor instruction to their passions, integrating technology in ways that are meaningful and relevant to them. This approach not only fosters engagement but also ensures that every student has the opportunity to develop essential tech skills, no matter their background or circumstances.”
Her work continues to shape the future of computer science education in South Dakota, ensuring that students and educators alike are prepared to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
About CSTA South Dakota:
CSTA-SD is a professional education association established in 2021. Membership is open to all educators and other stakeholders committed to promoting, expanding, and enhancing Computer Science and other computing disciplines in South Dakota. Learn more: southdakota.csteachers.org
