Lorain Times

Speaker Pro Tempore Gayle Manning, a Republican from North Ridgeville, held a press conference in Columbus to discuss forthcoming legislation that mandates Ohio high school students take a computer science course for graduation. Manning is co-sponsoring the bill with State Representative Don Jones, also a Republican from Freeport.

The proposed bill stipulates several requirements. Public high schools must offer at least one computer science course by the 2027-2028 school year. Schools without such courses must inform parents about the new offering. Those unable to provide this course in traditional settings by the deadline are required to submit an action plan to the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (ODEW) by June 30, 2027. The plan should outline how they intend to comply with the requirement. Beginning with the graduating class of 2032, students will need to complete one unit of computer science between grades 8 and 12 for graduation.

"This legislation has been intentionally crafted to best serve Ohio schools and set students up for success in the modern workforce," stated Manning.

Jones added, "The goal of this bill is to set students up for success by allowing them to develop valuable skills and make Ohio a leader in tech education. There is no doubt this will be transformative to education in Ohio."

Joining Manning at the press conference were State Senators Jerry Cirino and Catherine Ingram, Chris Berry from OhioX, Rick Carfagna from the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, and Julia Wynn from Code.org.

Berry remarked on the importance of technology education: "Every company is a technology company in today's economy and innovation is transforming Ohio's industries - from healthcare to manufacturing, finance to logistics, and more." He emphasized that both businesses and students need strong tech education for future success.

Carfagna highlighted economic concerns: "Ohio’s economic competitiveness depends on having a technologically proficient workforce... Improving access and quality of technology education in our K-12 system is just one of many opportunities Ohio must capitalize on."

Wynn noted disparities in access: "Although Ohio has made strides... we still see the state trailing its neighbors... A computer science graduation requirement is... significant impact on improving access."

Details regarding computer science education status both within Ohio and nationally can be accessed through additional resources.

The legislation awaits introduction in both chambers of the state legislature.