The bill amends the Revised School Code to mandate that, starting in the 2027-2028 school year, each public high school in Michigan must offer at least one computer science course to its students. The specific requirements for this course include that it must meet or exceed standards set by the state board of education, and schools are required to make a good-faith effort to provide the course in-person. However, if in-person instruction is not feasible, schools may offer the course through virtual or distance-based options. Additionally, the bill allows public high schools to fulfill this requirement by offering the course in any facility operated by relevant educational entities.

The bill also clarifies the definition of "computer science" as the study of computers and algorithmic processes, emphasizing the creation of new technologies rather than just the use of existing technology. Furthermore, it defines a "public high school" as any public school that offers at least one of the grades 9 to 12. Notably, the bill includes new provisions that allow for flexibility in how and where the computer science courses can be offered, ensuring that schools have multiple options to comply with the new requirement.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 380.1166