The "Computer Science Education Advancement Act" seeks to enhance high school education in Louisiana by making Computer Science a mandatory course for graduation. The bill amends existing laws to require students to complete at least one credit in Computer Science as part of their mathematics and science credits. It also mandates that teacher education programs include instruction on teaching Computer Science, ensuring that educators are equipped to deliver this essential curriculum. Additionally, the bill requires charter schools to provide Computer Science instruction, thereby ensuring that all students, regardless of their school type, have access to this critical area of study.

The legislation further establishes a framework for the core curriculum requirements for students graduating in the 2027-2028 school year and outlines the responsibilities of the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education in implementing these changes. It mandates that public high schools offer a one-credit Computer Science course, while middle schools must provide exploratory instruction and elementary schools must teach the basics of computer science and computational thinking. To support these initiatives, the bill includes a plan for the state Department of Education to enhance the capacity of computer science teachers by June 30, 2024, incorporating recommendations from the Louisiana Computer Science Education Advisory Commission and providing alternative pathways and scholarships for teacher training. The implementation of these provisions will occur in phases, beginning with the 2025-2026 school year.

Statutes affected:
HB264 Original: 17:3(B)(2), 17:5025(2), 17:5026(A)(2)
HB264 Engrossed: 17:3(B)(2), 17:5025(2), 17:5026(A)(2)
HB264 Reengrossed: 17:3(B)(2), 17:5025(2), 17:5026(A)(2)
HB264 Enrolled: 17:3(B)(2), 17:5025(2), 17:5026(A)(2)
HB264 Act : 17:3(B)(2), 17:5025(2), 17:5026(A)(2)