Bill > HB1576

This bill establishes comprehensive requirements for computer science education in Missouri schools, expanding the definition of computer science courses to include cybersecurity, social media training, and artificial intelligence. The legislation mandates that by the 2023-2024 school year, all public high schools must offer at least one computer science course, either in-person or virtually. The bill requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to develop rigorous academic performance standards for computer science education from kindergarten through 12th grade, and to create a work group including educators, state officials, and industry representatives to help develop these standards. Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, students will be required to complete a half-unit of computer science coursework to graduate, and this course can potentially count as a mathematics, science, or practical arts credit. The bill also establishes a Computer Science Education Fund to provide grants for teacher professional development in computer science, with a focus on reaching new teachers, supporting underrepresented students, and providing hands-on training. Additionally, the legislation requires annual reporting on computer science course enrollment and instructor demographics, and mandates that the state appoint a computer science supervisor to implement these provisions.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1576&year=2025&code=R