Unlocking the Future: Louisiana’s New Computer Science Education Advancement Act Empowers Students – The Tulane Hullabaloo

As technology continues to grow, the need for computer science skills is skyrocketing. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that jobs in computer and information technology are set to increase much faster than most other fields from 2023 to 2033.

In response to this demand, Louisiana has introduced a new law. Starting August 1, 2024, all public high school students in Louisiana must complete at least one computer science course to graduate. This initiative is part of the Computer Science Education Advancement Act, passed by the Louisiana State Legislature and signed into law in May 2024.

Not only high school students, but also those in grades six through eight will learn “exploratory computer science.” Furthermore, elementary schools will start teaching basics of computer science and computational thinking. These requirements aim to prepare students for a future where technology will be a key part of their careers.

The rollout of these programs will begin in high schools before the 2026-2027 school year. Middle schools will follow suit, with computer science programs starting before this same school year. Elementary schools are expected to roll out their programs by the 2027-2028 school year.

This law complements the Computer Science Education Act from 2022, which established the Computer Science Education Advisory Commission. This commission is tasked with ensuring that computer science education is delivered effectively in public schools across Louisiana.

According to legislative findings, computer science is a critical industry that enhances productivity, sparks innovation, and drives economic growth. Despite the high demand for computer science roles, many positions remain unfilled. The intent of this new education curriculum is to equip students with the skills needed to meet this growing demand.

Job growth in computer and information technology is forecasted to be around 12% from 2023 to 2033, with an estimated 356,700 job openings each year. In particular, roles like information security analysts are projected to grow by 33%, showcasing the urgent need for skilled professionals in today’s job market.