For the second year in a row, Iowa has been named one of the top 10 states in the nation for providing access to high-quality computer science education.
The 2024 State of Computer Science Education report, released by Code.org, the Computer Science Teachers Association, and the Expanding Computing Education Pathways Alliance, provides an in-depth look at computer science education nationwide. For the 2023-24 academic year, Iowa achieved a top-10 ranking, with 84 percent of its public high schools offering foundational computer science courses.
Grant Wood AEA's Interdisciplinary Computer Science team has supported districts in creating and implementing Pre-K-12 CS plans, integrated CS into existing math and science curricula, and provided extensive PD and coaching for educators to align with CS standards.
Our team offers resources like a physical computing lending library, collaborate on statewide initiatives, and partner with UNI to provide free CS teaching endorsements. Additionally, they've organized events such as CS Ed Week and secured grants to fund PD, reaching hundreds of teachers across Iowa.
GWAEA digital learning consultant, Corey Rogers, had this to say: "Computer Science requires problem-solving, creativity, collaboration and communication, all skills students will need to be successful citizens. CS touches all aspects of our lives, so no matter what students pursue after their Pre-K-12 schooling, foundation CS knowledge sets them up to successfully use CS to create solutions to problems in their communities and for the world."
We're proud to be part of the collaborative effort that earned this ranking. Supporting educators and students with CS education requires districts, educators, community partners, and leaders to work together. We hope to continue being part of this important and inspirational work!