What you can do to support CS education
Many kids don’t learn Computer Science (CS) and many schools don’t offer classes because in many states CS is not a required course in K-12 public education. You can help change that and make CS available to all kids! Parents’ opinions to schools, so know that you hold a lot of power when it comes to advocating for a better education for your children! The following page provides ideas for what you can do to advocate for more CS and AI learning opportunities at your school, in your community, and at the policy level.
Key Stats about Computer Science Education
In the US, only 6% of high school students ever take a Computer Science (CS) class.
Students who take an AP Computer Science course are 17% more likely to go to college.
90% of parents want their children to learn CS or agree that schools should offer CS. But only 25% of principals say their schools offer programming/coding classes.
80% of parents have concerns about harmful effects of AI, but only 35% of parents have discussed AI usage with their kids.
Only 60% of U.S. high schools teach CS and it is least likely to be taught in rural schools or schools with a high number of students of color.
U.S. Hispanic/Latine students are 1.7 times less likely than their white and Asian peers to take CS, even if their school offers it.
High schools with more than 50% of students qualifying for free or reduced lunch are less likely to offer foundational CS classes.
Computer Science education elevates students’ career opportunities and their lifetime earning potential, allowing them to uplift their families. But only 38% of students enrolled in CS classes are economically disadvantaged.
Make the case for all kids to learn CS in your city.
See what Computer Science and AI learning experiences are offered at your school using the CSforCA Equity Data Dashboard or by inquiring with your teacher or principal. Then, visit csforca.org/take-action/#make-the-case to download advocacy tools including a sample letter template, slidedeck, and social media cards to make your case to your local school leaders or school board. Ask about funding for more computer science classes or resources through your Local Control & Accountability Plan (LCAP), or research grants/sponsorships from local companies and nonprofit organizations. Talk to other parents, caregivers, and community members to share and grow the cause.
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All kids need to know about the good AND bad of tech.
Only 6% of all high school students in the U.S. ever take a Computer Science class. Learning computer science prepares children to become well-informed consumers and creators with technology who can think critically about how computers can be helpful or harmful. Find out why learning computer science is essential for all children and what you can do to help by downloading the free guide for parents below.
Plugging into Power: A Guide for and by Parents to Advance Computer Science Education
Now available in English, en Español and in HTML!
