Riddhi Shah

  • Computer Science and Digital Applications Faculty
  • Faculty Member at King since 2014
  • Programming, Robotics, and Digital Applications; STEAM Club Advisor
  • BS, Long Island University, C. W. Post
  • MS, Teachers College, Columbia University

Why do you teach at King?

King is a student centered school. When I first arrived, I felt the presence of a student body that was buzzing with enthusiasm and intellectual curiosity. I saw groups of students sitting together in the academic center discussing a project and studying, another group was playing chess. The academics is challenging, and the Faculty are creative in their teaching methods. The Faculty, staff, and administration work together collaboratively to make the environment safe and inviting for everyone.

Describe a lesson you look forward to each year?

At the beginning of each programming course, I include the lesson on hardware and binary. In order to understand computers, it is important for students to see the relationship between hardware and software, and how computer languages, such as Java and Python, are read by the computer.

How has Computer Science influenced your life?

I still enjoy putting together puzzles. There is nothing more satisfying than being able to fix a “bug” and have your program run smoothly. I like encouraging and inspiring students to challenge themselves. If they want to add or change something in their program, they can do it. If there are bugs, they can fix it. Programming allows the students to problem solve and think critically.

Describe what you feel sets apart King and our students?

I noticed right away the influence of the Virtues, and their impact on the school community. The older students set a great example for their younger peers. The King community is a collaborative community. We help each other to move forward and grow. We are not afraid to make mistakes and learn and change for the better.

King helps students achieve their personal best. How do you accomplish this in your classroom?

I offer different forms of assessments and projects. I help students individually and in small groups and really have those deeper conversations that connect and deepen learning.

What drew you to becoming the Faculty Advisor for the S.T.E.A.M. Club?

The students were enthusiastic about females advancing in the mathematics and science fields. They wanted an all girls club to focus on this. At the Girls Advancing in STEM (GAINS) conference, it was wonderful to see the King students interact with students from other schools and have the opportunity to be inspired by accomplished women pursuing STEM careers.