We are honored to announce that our founder, Deanna Bledsoe, has been nominated for Technical.ly’s Delaware Educator of the Year. This recognition celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to tech education in Delaware, and we’re incredibly proud of Deanna’s achievements.

A Passion for Tech Education

Deanna’s journey into tech education is both unique and inspiring. With 30 years of experience in IT—starting as a programmer and eventually becoming the IT Director for Delaware’s Treasury Department—Deanna’s passion for technology and education converged after she returned to school to earn a degree in teaching when her daughter was born.

It was during the Covid-19 pandemic that she realized her true calling: combining her expertise in technology with her love for teaching.

In 2021, Deanna founded Kai Coders with a mission to make tech education engaging, accessible, and fun for kids. Under her leadership, Kai Coders has created programs where students don’t just learn to code—they use their skills to make a difference in the world through “Tech for Good” projects.

These projects, showcased at national and international conferences like Hawaii STEM, International Society of Technology in Education (ISTE) 2023 & 2024, and the Scratch Global Conference 2023 & 2024, are a testament to the impact Kai Coders has had on the community.

Advocating for Students & Women in Tech

Deanna is dedicated to empowering her students, fostering their creativity, and inspiring them to be the next generation of tech innovators and leaders. She believes in showcasing students’ work, giving them real-world recognition and confidence in their abilities.

In addition to her work with kids, Deanna is also a fierce advocate for women in tech. She strives to create opportunities for women to not only enter the tech field but to thrive, lead, and become change-makers who shape the culture of the industry.

Looking to the Future

Deanna’s nomination for Delaware Educator of the Year is a recognition of her tireless work and commitment to transforming tech education. Kai Coders continues to grow, and with Deanna’s leadership, we remain focused on inspiring young minds to become problem-solvers and innovators in an ever-evolving world.

Thank you to everyone who has supported Kai Coders and Deanna’s vision. Together, we’re shaping the future of tech education and empowering the next generation to thrive in the digital age.