Schools; requiring computer science courses or instruction for certain grade levels; effective date.
The legislation will amend existing statutes regarding educational standards and teacher preparation to ensure that computer science is a core component of the curriculum. The State Department of Education is tasked with developing a rubric for computer science programs, which will aid schools in adopting high-quality computer science courses that adhere to established state standards. The bill also emphasizes the necessity for teachers to be certified in computer science, thus raising the qualifications required for educators in this area.
House Bill 2751 aims to enhance computer science education across the state of Oklahoma by mandating that public schools at all grade levels incorporate computer science instruction. The bill specifies that beginning in the 2024-2025 school year, each public high school must offer at least one computer science course, while public middle schools are required to provide exploratory computer science content, and elementary schools must offer foundational computer science education and computational thinking. This approach seeks to prepare students for an increasingly digital workforce by instilling critical technical skills from an early age.
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 2751 may include discussions on funding for the implementation of these programs and the availability of certified instructors. Critics may argue about the financial implications for schools to provide these new courses, particularly in underfunded districts, as well as the challenge of ensuring teachers have the requisite training and certification in computer science. Proponents, however, contend that this investment is vital for equipping students with essential skills for the modern economy and addressing the growing demand for technology-savvy workers.