Gov. Eric Holcomb on Thursday ceremonially signed into law legislation sponsored by State Rep. Tony Cook (R-Cicero) expanding student access to computer science classes in Indiana schools.
Retired school administrator and vice-chair of the House Committee on Education, Cook said this new law ensures computer science education is offered to Hoosier students and establishes the Next Level Computer Science Grant Program to help local schools train teachers to instruct these courses.
According to Cook, there are more than 8,000 job openings statewide in the computer science industry. He said by tasking all public and charter schools with offering a computer science course as a one-semester elective at least once each school year by 2021, Hoosiers can begin developing skills needed in high-demand industries.
“The tech industry is a rapidly growing sector throughout the state,” Cook said. “By offering computer science programs in all Indiana schools, students will have the opportunity to explore the field and see for themselves if this is something they may want to pursue as a career. Establishing a fund to help schools create these programs and train teachers will ensure students receive a quality education.”
According to Cook, statistics show that students introduced to computer science in their K-12 schooling are more likely to pursue computer science degrees in college.
State Rep. Tony Cook (R-Cicero) represents House District 32, which includes all of Tipton County and portions of Hamilton, Madison, Delaware, Howard and Grant counties.