Computer science education requirement approved

Nebraska students will receive computer science and technology education before graduating from high school under a bill passed April 12.

LB1112, introduced by Omaha Sen. Terrell McKinney, requires each Nebraska school district to include computer science and technology education in the instructional program of its elementary and middle schools beginning with school year 2024-25.

Additionally, it requires public school students to complete at least one five-credit high school course in computer science and technology prior to graduation beginning with school year 2026-27. Students may complete a one-semester high school course in computer science and technology to fulfill the requirement.

Districts may offer the course in a traditional classroom setting, a blended learning environment or an online-based or other technology-based format.

LB1112 requires each district to provide an annual status report to its school board and the state Department of Education that includes student progress in computer science and technology courses and other information.

It also requires the State Board of Education to adopt measurable academic content standards for computer science and technology education under the mathematics, science or career and technical education standards.

The bill passed on a vote of 33-11.