Recently, the Michigan House of Representatives passed a bill that could require public high schools to offer at least one computer science course. State Representative Carol Glanville, who sponsored the bill, emphasized the importance of providing students with computer science education to prepare them for high-paying computing jobs available in Michigan.
The proposed requirement would take effect during the 2027-2028 school year. According to an analysis by the non-partisan House Fiscal Agency, most schools in Michigan already have students enrolled in some form of computer science classes. However, Glanville noted that while students are gaining some skills in this area, her bill aims to help schools identify gaps and provide students with more intentional instruction.
The bill received bipartisan support, with a vote of 87-22 in favor of its passage. All opposing votes came from Republicans, including Representative Brad Paquette, who expressed concerns about the additional requirements on schools. While he hopes the legislation benefits students, Paquette believes that lawmakers should focus on proven best practices to address deeper issues within the education system.
The bill will now move to the state Senate for further consideration. If it is passed, public high schools across Michigan will be required to offer at least one computer science course, providing students with valuable skills for future success in the job market.
