NY A05296

Requires all high school students in New York to complete one computer science course to receive a diploma, effective July 1, 2026.

Directs the Department of Education to adopt a list of approved computer science courses by July 1, 2026, to be made publicly available on the department's website.

Mandates computer science courses be offered in-person at public high schools and charter schools, with virtual options only when in-person instruction is not feasible.

Allows school districts to waive the requirement if no computer science course is available, and permits individual students to submit waivers if unable to complete the requirement.

Requires school districts to submit annual reports on computer science courses and instructor demographics (certification, gender, race/ethnicity, education level) beginning July 1, 2027.

Creates a state computer science supervisor position within the Department of Education to oversee implementation and develop approved courses.

Mandates teacher preparation programs include computer science instruction and information technology skills starting July 1, 2028.