Purpose of the Bill

The bill focuses on promoting computer science education in Minnesota schools. It seeks to establish grants for schools to develop and implement comprehensive computer science curricula, encourage local adoption of computer science standards, and support professional development for teachers in computer science. The bill aims to increase access and involvement in computer science, particularly for historically underrepresented groups.

Main Provisions

1. Local Standards Encouragement: Districts are encouraged to adopt local computer science standards aligned with a state-developed framework, but they are not mandated to do so.

2. Framework Development: By July 2026, the Minnesota Department of Education must create a framework outlining essential computer science skills and equitable teaching practices. This includes using data to increase diversity and ensuring accessibility to students with disabilities.

3. Plan Development and Grants: The Department of Education is tasked with providing competitive grants to school districts for developing comprehensive computer science plans. These plans should address integration across K-12 education, strategies for including underrepresented students, and methods to enhance teacher capacity.

4. Teacher Licensure and Support: The Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board will require computer science professional development for teacher license renewal and award grants to establish computer science teacher preparation programs. Support will also be provided for teachers pursuing licensure through courses, mentorship, and other resources.

5. Appropriations: Funds are appropriated from the general fund to support the development and implementation of computer science education plans, teacher preparation programs, and incentives for new computer science teachers.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The introduction of a dedicated computer science framework and supervisor within the state's Department of Education to oversee the implementation and advancement of computer science education.
• New requirements for teacher professional development in computer science as a part of license renewal.
• Establishment of a data collection plan to monitor access and success in computer science education across the state.

Relevant Terms

computer science education, computer science framework, K-12 education, grants, teacher licensure, professional development, underrepresented groups, education standards.