Meet the Department: Erik Wiessmann
01 // FROM SOFTWARE TO CLASSROOMS
I graduated college back in 1995 with a Computer Science degree. For about ten years, I lived in Chicago and Los Angeles running a small software development firm.
Looking to align my energy with social good, I transitioned into teaching. But CS programs were rare. I spent years teaching math and physics because Computer Science simply didn't exist at any significant scale in our schools—much like when I took AP Computer Science A as a student myself.
02 // RIGOR, RESPECT, & RETRO GAMING
I arrived at Palumbo in 2013. As the sole member of our Computer Science department, I recognize that my program is an elective. That means I work hard to make sure my students are genuinely glad they chose to walk through my door.
I prioritize exceptionally student-friendly policies: I don't assign formal tests. If something is turned in late, all a student needs to do is communicate, and I accept it without question.
We've balanced this friendly environment with technical rigor. Through DonorsChoose, we even got two stand-up arcade machines and a pull-up bar inside the classroom. It's a space where we learn hard concepts, but everyone has an active voice.
03 // THE RUN TOWARD THE GOAL
I am currently running forward towards this goal as fast as I can.
While coding feels like second nature to me, cybersecurity is a distinct landscape. To close that gap, I've dived headfirst into preparatory courses, read countless ebooks, and spoken extensively with industry professionals. I checked the College Board relentlessly for updates when the page was empty—and now the curriculum is finally here.
I discovered Professor Messer and established the CompTIA Security+ certification as my next personal goal. I am also currently registering for the AP Summer Institute. I love learning, and the self-assigned homework is incredibly rewarding—a process I proudly share openly with my students.
04 // ADAPTIVE RECRUITMENT & PILOTS
A year ago, a student brought the AP Cybersecurity Pilot program to my attention, but the window to apply had passed. I spent the last year waiting eagerly for this moment.
My supportive principal, Ms. Thompson, trusts that if students sign up, we will do our best to build the course. At Palumbo's Course Preview Day, and through constant daily visits, I've secured 35 students for next year.
"I tell students: 'I would love to have the privilege to teach you.' I invite them to sit in my active classes, speak with current students (both those who love it and those who find it tough), and if they are on the fence, I follow up with friendly, goofy emails."