North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

North Dakota House Bill HB1398

Introduced
1/16/23  
Refer
1/16/23  
Report Pass
2/15/23  
Engrossed
2/17/23  
Refer
2/20/23  
Report Pass
3/15/23  
Enrolled
3/20/23  

Caption

Mandatory computer science and cybersecurity instruction and minimum requirements for high school graduation; and to provide an expiration date.

Impact

The enactment of HB1398 will significantly alter the existing educational landscape by making computer science a critical component of both K-12 education and adult education. Schools will be required to develop integration plans for curricula that emphasize computer science skills, preparing students not only for graduation but also for the workforce in a digital economy. Additionally, funding through grants will enable schools and learning centers to broaden access to these essential skills for adults, thereby increasing workforce readiness and adaptability.

Summary

House Bill 1398 seeks to enhance educational standards in North Dakota by mandating the inclusion of computer science and cybersecurity instruction for both high school students and adult learners. The bill amends existing laws to require elementary, middle, and high school curricula to incorporate foundational computer science concepts. It further establishes a grant program to support adult learning initiatives in cybersecurity and computer operations, reflecting a broader push to equip the population with essential 21st-century skills.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB1398 has been positive, particularly among educators and proponents of technology in education. Advocates argue that expanding computer science education is crucial for preparing students for the demands of the modern workforce and ensuring economic competitiveness. Nonetheless, discussions also highlighted apprehensions regarding the adequacy of training for educators and the necessity of resources to effectively implement these changes across diverse educational settings.

Contention

Despite the general support for the bill, some concerns have been raised over the practical implications of its implementation. Critics point out potential challenges in effectively training teachers to deliver specialized computer science content and ensuring that all students have equitable access to advanced technology. There is also the ongoing debate about the prioritization of computer science education over traditional subjects, prompting discussions about the balance of educational components within the curriculum.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ND HB4986

Relating to computer science and cybersecurity instruction for adult learners

ND SF2332

A bill for an act relating to computer science instruction, including by modifying provisions related to the graduation requirements, the computer science instruction provided to students enrolled in grades nine through twelve, computer science instruction endorsements and authorizations issued by the board of educational examiners, and the computer science professional development incentive fund.(Formerly SSB 3171.)

ND SSB3171

A bill for an act relating to computer science instruction, including by modifying provisions related to the graduation requirements, the computer science instruction provided to students enrolled in grades nine through twelve, computer science instruction endorsements and authorizations issued by the board of educational examiners, and the computer science professional development incentive fund.(See SF 2332.)

ND HB264

Adds computer science as a high school graduation requirement and requires teacher preparation programs to include computer science education (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)

ND SB01033

An Act Concerning The Inclusion Of Computer Science And Financial Literacy As Part Of The High School Graduation Requirements.

ND HF253

A bill for an act relating to computer science instruction, including by modifying provisions related to the graduation requirements, the computer science instruction provided by students enrolled in grades nine through twelve, computer science instruction endorsements and authorizations issued by the board of educational examiners, and the computer science professional development incentive fund.

ND HB372

Provides relative to computer science as a high school graduation requirement (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

ND AB887

Pupil instruction: high schools: computer science courses: California Computer Science Demonstration Grant Program: reporting.

ND HB623

Require school districts to offer high school computer science

ND HB06408

An Act Concerning Computer Science Courses And The High School Graduation Requirements.

Similar Bills

NJ S3222

Requires instruction on cybersecurity in grades nine through 12; requires Office of Secretary of Higher Education to develop cybersecurity model curricula; establishes loan redemption programs for individuals in certain cybersecurity occupations.

NJ A1982

Requires instruction on cybersecurity in grades nine through 12; requires Office of Secretary of Higher Education to develop cybersecurity model curricula; establishes loan redemption programs for individuals in certain cybersecurity occupations.

NJ A2999

Requires instruction on cybersecurity in grades nine through 12; requires Office of Secretary of Higher Education to develop cybersecurity model curricula; establishes loan redemption programs for individuals in certain cybersecurity occupations.

OK HB1983

Schools; media literacy and cybersecurity to be taught in sixth, seventh, or eighth grades; State Department of Education to adopt curriculum standards; effective date.

CA AB3276

School districts: cybersecurity assessment.

CA AB405

Public postsecondary education: community college districts: baccalaureate degree cybersecurity pilot program.

NM HB256

Hybrid Dual Credit Pilot Project

NJ S3313

Requires certain procedures and training for municipalities, counties, and school districts in response to cybersecurity incidents.