Computer science education creates career opportunities and has been shown to make a positive impact on students’ academic achievement, yet many students continue to lack adequate exposure to the field.
This year, the Santa Cruz County Office of Education (Santa Cruz COE) is pleased to announce an expanded series of computer science related events, activities and resources as part of Computer Science Education Week (CSEdweek). CSEdWeek, from December 5-11, is an annual call to action to inspire K-12 students to learn computer science, advocate for equity, and celebrate the contributions of students, teachers, and partners to the field.
“We know that coding in the classroom has a profound impact, improving analytical and problem solving skills, helping to bridge the digital divide, and opening doors in the tech industry and beyond,” said Jason Borgen, Chief Technology and Innovations Officer at the Santa Cruz COE. “This year’s focus on CSEdWeek is part of our goal of supporting early and equitable access to computer science education for every Santa Cruz County student.”
The week kicks off with an Equity Town Hall from 6-7:30 p.m. December 5. Exploring both pathways and persistent barriers to the field, this virtual event features a student speaker and a panel of industry representatives. Later in the week, the Santa Cruz COE is hosting a hands-on CS Playground event from 4-6 p.m. at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History. A lineup of educator trainings as well as an activity and resource hub will be available leading up to and throughout the week.
More than one in four high school districts in California did not offer a computer science course as of 2018-19, according to data compiled by California for Computer Science. Santa Cruz County is ahead of the curve, with one or more computer science courses at each of its four high school districts. But local education leaders are continuing to work to remove barriers and increase access, enrollment and equity, including underrepresentation of girls.
“Tomorrow’s innovators are in our classrooms today,” said Borgen. “Let’s help our students imagine and build their future!”
Go to sccoe.link/csedweek22 to learn more.