Purpose of the Bill

This bill aims to enhance computer science education in Minnesota by establishing grants for schools to develop and implement computer science plans. It also addresses teacher preparation and licensure to ensure educators are well-equipped to teach computer science.

Main Provisions

• Computer Science Plan Grants: The Minnesota Department of Education will provide competitive grants to school districts and charter schools not currently offering computer science. These grants are for developing plans to incorporate computer science into K-12 curriculums, including identifying necessary supports and funding sources for sustainability.

• Plan Implementation: Additional grants will be awarded to implement these plans, prioritizing districts that ensure K-8 computer science instruction and make offerings available to high school students, especially in smaller schools with less than 500 students.

• Teacher Licensure and Preparation: The bill mandates the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board to adopt rules requiring teacher licensure renewals to include computer science professional development. Grants will also support teacher preparation programs to establish computer science licensure or integrate computer science into existing programs.

• Teacher Support: There will be support programs to help current teachers earn computer science licensure through courses and preparation for assessments. This includes mentorship programs, portfolio guidance, and fee waivers.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Amendments to Statutes: The bill amends Minnesota Statutes section 122A.187 by adding a subdivision related to computer science and proposes new statutes in chapters 120B and 122A to guide these initiatives.

• Funding Allocation: The bill provides one-time appropriations from the general fund for developing and implementing computer science education plans and teacher preparation and licensure programs.

Relevant Terms

• Computer Science Education
• Grants
• Teacher Licensure
• Professional Development
• Curriculum Development
• K-12 Education
• Teacher Preparation Programs