Rep. Susan Brooks recently met with a group of Advanced Placement Computer Science students at Fishers High School. She has introduced a bipartisan bill – the Computer Science Education Act – that will provide more funding flexibility for computer science in the kindergarten through grade 12 system. The bill is supported by a wide range of groups including code.org, Google and Microsoft. Part of the bill was recently included in the Student Success Act passed by the House, however, the full bill is still being pushed.
“We need to make sure our students are ready to compete for 21st century jobs in an increasingly tech-driven and global economy,” Brooks said. “Fishers High School is giving its students a chance to learn important skills like coding and programming. These kids are taking classes that will open doors for them moving forward. The knowledge they’re gaining now will help them as they pursue valuable college degrees and apply for jobs at top companies.”
During her FHS visit, Congresswoman Brooks shared information on the Computer Science Education Act and how it would increase access to computer science opportunities for students. She also asked the students to share information that would help her pitch the bill to colleagues in the House of Representatives. Many students discussed the need to put computers in front of kids as early as possible. Some suggested that basic computer courses include an introduction to Computer Science so that more students will be interested in the subject. They also discussed the need for more women to study computer science and work in the STEM field.
“The Computer Science Education Act will enable quality programs like the one at Fishers High School to grow while also allowing schools just beginning to explore Computer Science to begin offering new opportunities for students,” Brooks said.
Before leaving the students, Brooks reminded them to thank their teachers for all of their hard work and commitment to helping them succeed. After the visit, Congresswoman Brooks met with Superintendent Brian Smith, Principal Jason Urban and HSE Schools board members.