HB 133 - Computer Coding Instruction Summary

• Requires the Articulation Coordinating Committee to develop recommendations on computer science instruction in collaboration with industry stakeholders and parent advocates, with a report deadline of December 31, 2020.

• Committee recommendations must identify high school computer science courses meeting State University System admissions requirements, required academic and technical skills, strategies to encourage underrepresented students, and gaps in current policies and practices.

• Requires the Commissioner of Education to include high school computer science courses in the Course Code Directory by June 30, 2020, and mandates school districts notify students when enrolled in courses satisfying mathematics or science admissions requirements.

• Requires the Department of Education to annually report to the Board of Governors and Legislature on identified computer science courses, student enrollment by district, and the number of certified computer science educators.

• Directs the State Board of Education to develop strategies for recruiting qualified computer science teachers, updating certification requirements, and creating pathways to computer science educator certification by consulting with the Board of Governors and school districts.