Bill > SB326

This bill mandates that all Ohio high school students must complete at least one computer science course to graduate, beginning with those entering ninth grade in the 2028-2029 school year. School districts and certain other educational institutions, referred to as "school governing authorities," will be required to offer at least a half-unit (equivalent to about 60 hours of instruction) of computer science in each high school building. The computer science courses must be of high quality, meet state standards, and include instruction on evolving areas like artificial intelligence. While schools are encouraged to offer these courses in person, they can seek approval to offer virtual or distance learning options if in-person instruction is not feasible, provided they submit an action plan to the Department of Education and Workforce. The bill also specifies how computer science credits can count towards other graduation requirements, such as science or mathematics, and outlines reporting requirements for the state to track computer science education offerings and student participation. Additionally, it allows for partnerships with community colleges to offer computer science instruction and establishes the "Ohio computer science promise program" to provide students with access to computer science courses outside of their regular school offerings at no cost.