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K12 Initiatives

Home / K12 Initiatives

Inspiring the Next Generation of Creators

Student playtesting game

We bring ETC’s spirit of innovation to K–12 classrooms through interactive, tech-infused learning experiences.

Designed in collaboration with local educators, our programs spark curiosity and support skills from early literacy to hands-on STEM exploration. At every level, we’re helping young learners and their teachers imagine, build and play their way into the future.

Playtesting at the ETC

For any game designer or developer, playtesting is an integral part of the development process. Great experiences are built through iteration and improvement, and that means testing them out, getting feedback, and incorporating what’s learned. That’s why we make it a point to have regular Playtest Days where participants of all ages try out in-progress student projects and share their insights. It’s a core part of our design philosophy: make something, test it, learn from it, and make it better. Plus, it’s a lot of fun!

Sign up to Playtest

Software Solutions

We develop creative tools that bring coding and storytelling into the classroom — like the Wick Editor, a free, open-source platform for making animations, games, and interactive projects. Designed with educators and students in mind, our software supports playful, hands-on learning that helps young creators express ideas and build digital fluency.

Learn about Wick Editor

Pre-College Programs

Through working on initiatives like EDG:E and CMU’s Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS), we introduce high school students to creative technology, game design, and interactive storytelling. These immersive programs build technical and artistic skills while fostering collaboration, confidence, and a deeper understanding of how technology can be used to inspire change.

Learn More about EDG:E

Professional Development

We help educators bring playful learning and creative tech into their classrooms. Our workshops and training sessions model ETC-style collaboration and design thinking, giving teachers the tools to craft interactive, student-centered experiences. It’s professional development that inspires innovation and celebrates the joy of teaching through technology.

Executive Education

Our executive education offerings invite school leaders and district decision-makers into the world of transformational learning. Through immersive sessions and strategic conversations, we explore how technology and storytelling can shape the future of education. It’s big-picture thinking with practical applications, rooted in creativity, empathy, and the power of play.

John Balash
Director of Academic Outreach, Extension, and Engagement

  • Email jbalash@andrew.cmu.edu
  • Phone 216-406-5258

Anthony Palyszeski
Outreach and Engagement Network Coordinator

  • Email anthp@cmu.edu
  • Phone 724-448-1920

5000 Forbes Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
(412) 268-2000

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