Baker Franke
About Baker Franke
Franke earned a BA in computer science and English from Amherst College and an MS in computer science from the University of Chicago. Early in his career, he founded the high school computer science program at the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, where he also established computer science as a graduation requirement. During his tenure, he was named a Golden Apple Award: Excellence in Teaching Finalist, received an NCWIT Aspirations in Computing Teaching Award, and was recognized by the White House as a Champion of Change for his efforts to increase access and participation of girls and women in STEM disciplines.
Committed to broadening participation in computing, Franke played a key role in Chicago’s computer science education movement. He co-founded the first Chicago chapter of the Computer Science Teachers Association and helped develop professional development programs for Chicago Public Schools teachers, leading to the district becoming the first major U.S. school system to require computer science for graduation.
At Code.org, Franke led the development of the AP Computer Science Principles curriculum, which is now used by more than 60 percent of students taking the exam. As a professional development leader, he trained thousands of teachers, many with no prior computer science experience, to teach AP courses. Later, he managed Code.org’s data and analytics team, spearheading initiatives to measure learning and inclusion in computer science education.
Returning to the classroom, Franke joined UIC in 2024 to support and mentor students of all backgrounds, particularly those new to the field. He is dedicated to ensuring that all students — regardless of prior experience — feel a sense of belonging in computer science.