Bill > HCB5

This bill mandates that every school district in Missouri must offer a computer programming course to all high school students starting from the 2017-18 school year. Districts have flexibility in how they provide this course, as they can develop their own curriculum, use an existing one they've previously offered, or utilize an online curriculum developed by the state's department of elementary and secondary education. Importantly, this computer programming course will count as an elective or practical arts course towards graduation requirements, but students are not required to take it to graduate. The course must be taught by a teacher holding a valid teaching license, with specific additional qualifications determined by each school district. The course can be delivered in various formats, including online or via videoconferencing, as long as a certified teacher supervises the instruction.