Computer Science for Utah
In the 21st century computing and technology touch our lives daily in a variety of ways. They are so seamlessly integrated into our daily routine that it is hard to imagine life without them. Computer science (CS), the discipline that makes the use of computers possible, has driven innovation in every industry and field of study. It is also powering novel solutions to many of our world’s toughest challenges. Educating students in CS provides them with highly-valued skills in the 21st century workplace: creativity, collaboration, and an understanding of how to use technology.
Master Plan
This Master Plan was created and compiled by the authors over two months of interviews and meetings with key stakeholders. This report built upon years of work by the Utah State Board of Education, the Talent Ready Utah Board, Expanding Computing Education Pathways Utah, the State legislature, the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and the Utah CS Task Force. This plan articulates the goals for computer science, strategies for accomplishing the goals, and timelines for carrying out the goals, along with identifying lead entities to implement each one.
Utah Computer Science Education Master Plan
Utah Computer Science Education Master Plan Executive Summary
Utah Computer Science Standards
Utah teachers, principals, district leaders, and university professors worked with USBE in March 2019 to develop K-5 and 6-12 Computer Science Standards. The writers used the Utah Computer Science K-12 Framework and the K-12 Computer Science Framework to identify concepts and practices to inform the creation of standards for each grade level.
Utah K-5 Computer Science Standards
Utah 6-12 Computer Science Standards
Utah K-12 Computer Science Grant
Overview
House Bill (H.B. 227): Utah Computer Science Grant Act established the Computer Science for Utah Grant Program in 2019 for purposes of implementing the Utah Computer Science Education Master Plan. The grants are for the express purpose of “improving computer science outcomes and course offerings, demonstrated by the creation and implementation of a local agency computer science plan and the effective implementation of approved courses and the provision of effective training opportunities for licensed teachers.” House Bill (H.B. 227): Utah Computer Science Grant Act. Details of the Utah Computer Science Grant Program state that eligible local education agencies can apply for the grant, submit it to the state board of education for review and recommendation to the talent ready board for approval based upon the following criteria:
Local Education Agencies (LEA) shall submit a written 4-year “computer science plan that addresses the recommendations in the Utah CS Master Plan identifies targets for improved computer science offerings, student learning and licensed teacher training; describes a professional development program and other opportunities for high-quality professional learning for licensed teachers or individuals training to become teachers. Includes a detailed budget, communication, and reporting structure for implementing the computer science plan.”
K-12 Computer Science Full Grant Application (Google Doc)
Application window closed.
Computer Science "Access for All"
Each student in a Utah secondary public school will have access to robust and varied computer science courses by 2022. All students will enter secondary schools with exposure to computational thinking and competencies in digital literacy. This begins in our elementary schools with competencies in keyboarding, appropriate and responsible use of technology, and basic coding principles.
Many students will self-select a pathway of study when they reach high school and may not be in computer science. The state K-5 and 6-12 Computer Science Standards are written to include core computer science skills of critical thinking, problem solving, computational thinking, and mathematical reasoning in all subjects. “Access for All” is a means of approaching K-12 integration of computer science core skills to build a long-term sustainable program.
Reports
Computer Science for Utah Accountability Report
Accounts for all funds received. Due June 30, 2022.
Resources
Grant Applications Samples
Review exemplar completed grants.
Cache County School District
San Juan School District
Washington County School District
Frequently Asked Questions
Review updated K-12 Computer Science Grant structure, information and frequently asked
questions.
Frequently Asked Questions (Google Doc)
Utah K-12 Computer Science Grant Help Webinar
Get the help you need from Utah's own experts.
Meeting Recording (YouTube) | Presentation (Google Doc)
Utah K-12 Computer Science Resource Sheet
Curriculum Resources(Google Doc)
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