WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) - co-chair of the STEM Education Caucus and the only Latina in Congress with a background in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) - introduced the Computer Science for All Act, a comprehensive bill that expands access to computer science education from pre-school through grade 12.

"When students have uninterrupted access to the resources and opportunities to get involved with STEM early, they can build the confidence and skills that will last a lifetime," said Congresswoman Rivas. "My Computer Science for All Actstrengthens computer science programs in schools and empowers students from all backgrounds to explore their interests, feed their curiosities, and see a future for themselves in STEM. By taking steps to close the academic achievement gap for underrepresented groups, we can develop a STEM workforce that not only looks like America, but will keep our country competitive for generations to come."

BACKGROUND:

The Computer Science for All Actwould expand access to computer science education from pre-school through grade 12. Key aspects of this legislation include:

• Authorizing the Secretary of Education to award grants to states, local educational agencies, and eligible tribal schools to increase access to rigorous computer science courses, with a focus on addressing disparities among underrepresented groups, including minorities, girls, and low-income students.
• Grants supporting teacher training, high-quality learning materials, and mentoring for students traditionally excluded from science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM), including computer science fields.
• Allocating $250 million over five fiscal years in funding for these initiatives.

Congresswoman Rivas' Computer Science for All Actis endorsed by the National Education Association (NEA) and the Information Technology Industry (ITI) Council.

The bill is co-sponsored by Representatives Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Andre Carson (IN-07), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Ted Lieu (CA-36), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Mike Quigley (IL-05), and Dina Titus (NV-01).

Full text of the bill can be found here.

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