Meet Michael and Chris: Building CS Futures, One Computer at a Time

In a middle school classroom at Hózhó Academy Charter School, students aren’t just learning about computers, they are taking them apart, reassembling them, and understanding every piece along the way.   Leading that charge are Michael Neff and Chris Silva, a dynamic SkoCode teaching duo in their second year co-teaching 7th and 8th grade computer science classes.

With classes during the school day, this team has found their stride by blending structure, creative, and hands-on experiences that bring computer science to life.  Their most popular activity? Teaching students how to build a computer from the inside out.   “We dedicate an entire unit to teaching what each part does.  Then every student gets a PC to clean, take apart and put back together.  Seeing it power on again?  That’s the best part.” - Michael

Hands-on Learning That Sparks Careers

The Build a PC project isn’t just fun, it’s powerful.   Students begin to see how hardware works and realize that these skills might lead to future careers.   Beyond building computers, students are exploring 3D modeling and printing, game design and CS history and career exploration.  “We’ve had students come in and show us designs they created at home.   They want to 3D print them and keep on working.  That initiative shows us SkoCode is opening doors.” - Chris

Team Teaching That Works

Chris and Michael don’t just teach side by side, they design lessons that play to each other’s strengths.   Their teamwork allows them to bring out the best in each and in their students.

They split lesson planning and often switch lead roles based on who has the deeper knowledge or the louder voice that day.  “There was a day when I was losing my voice and felt sick.  Michael took over the lesson while I quietly handed out papers.  It’s those little things that make co-teaching work.” - Chris

Together, they’ve created a class culture where students are engaged, supported, and genuinely excited about learning.

Culture, Community & Confidence

Raised in Gallup, Chris says he brings his community and cultural experience into the classroom, highlights Native and female tech leaders and encourages students to bring their identities into their work.   The team works on building trust and pride in the room.   Michael adds that their goal is for students to leave class not just with knowledge, but with confidence. “We want them to have fun, learn something, and believe in their ability to problem-solve.  If they do that, we have done our job” - Michael

Making an Impact

Michael and Chris aren’t just teaching computer science, they’re modeling teamwork and exposing students to career paths they may have never considered. They are proving that when students feel seen, challenged, and supported, they thrive and succeed.  “Some students come in during breaks just to joke around.   They ask so many great questions that show they are thinking deeply. That’s when we know we’re making an impact” - Michael