Silicon Valley is known for launching new ideas with high intensity and on a massive scale. So it’s no surprise that with the support of the technology industry, computer science education is expanding at lightning speed.
But scaling up without a clear strategy could have unintended consequences. That’s why we’re calling on California to develop a comprehensive plan for computer science education across the state.
With support from Assemblywoman Susan Bonilla and Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, Assembly Bill 2329 would establish a diverse advisory panel to develop such a strategic plan. The bill is to be heard Friday by the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
Computer science is not just about access to technology. It is about students learning critical thinking, collaboration and creative problem solving. These are 21st-century skills that prepare students for college, careers and civic participation, and they should be available to students of all backgrounds. Computer science helps prepare students for careers – not only in the tech industry, but in nearly every field.
By 2018, more than half of all science and technology jobs are projected to be in computer-science-related fields. Yet only one in four high schools offers computer science, and in many schools, girls and students of color are woefully underrepresented.