Tennessee is launching a new resource to expand computer science instruction to all public-school students.
The Tennessee Department of Education launched the “Reach Them All” initiative this week in collaboration with the Tennessee STEM Innovation Network (TSIN). “Reach Them All” will provide Tennessee educators assistance to integrate computer science into a variety of academic subjects.
The initiative is the result of legislation unanimously passed by the Tennessee General Assembly this year. Chapter 979 of the Public Acts of 2022 requires all Tennessee school districts will implement new computer science requirements to prepare students for the jobs of today and tomorrow.
Through this new legislation, elementary schools must provide each student with grade-appropriate computer science education, middle schools must provide students access to computer science instruction for a minimum of one grading period of one school year, and high schools must provide all students who pursue a traditional diploma with at least one course credit of computer science education.
“Governor Bill Lee’s computer science law will ensure all Tennessee students—in any grade and studying any subject— can develop the essential computer science skills that support success in school and in life,” said Commissioner Penny Schwinn. “Now, through the department’s partnership with TSIN, Tennessee teachers will have additional incentive and support to implement this work for their students and in their districts.”
To support schools and teachers, “Reach Them All” will offer districts professional learning to help integrate computer science into all Tennessee classrooms. Each district is encouraged to name one Computer Science delegate to serve as a “Reach Them All” liaison to earn a $500 stipend and support their district in offering professional development opportunities in computer science.
“The most important task we have as 21st century educators are teaching all students, even our youngest learners, how computer science relates to all aspects of their lives,” said Brandi Stroecker, Director of the Tennessee STEM Innovation Network. “That task begins with supporting educators in understanding that computer science is foundational. It is essential that we begin there and build the strongest of foundations.”
