Senate Bill 593 requires the State Department of Education to develop a rubric for implementing quality computer science programs in public schools by the end of the year. It also requires the Department to set up a grant to fund the development of those courses.
Rep. Jeff Boatman and Senator Gary Stanislawski authored SB 593.
“As technology continues to advance, there is a steady increase in the demand for computer science professionals.” Boatman said. “Funding quality computer science programs in our public schools will help our students excel and get a leg up in future coursework, which will move our entire state forward.”
“The goal is to ensure access to the professional development training necessary for educators who will be integrating computer science and programming in a range of courses,” Stanislawski said. “This means we will better prepare Oklahoma students so they can compete in a world that is increasingly driven by technology.”
The measure passed its final legislative hurdle last week. It now awaits the governor’s signature.
