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HB 487

Quality Basic Education Act; computer science course shall be a high school graduation requirement beginning in 2031; provide

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bethany Ballard and 4 co-sponsors

House Bill 487 mandates Georgia high school students take a computer science course to graduate, ensuring they gain essential skills for the modern workforce by 2031-2032.

House Second Readers
0
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Bill Summary · HB 487

Summary of House Bill 487: Quality Basic Education Act

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 487 aims to enhance computer science education in Georgia by making it a mandatory high school graduation requirement starting in the 2031-2032 school year. The bill recognizes the growing importance of computer science skills in the modern workforce and seeks to address the current gap in computer science education among high school graduates.

Key Provisions

  • Mandatory Computer Science Course:

    • Beginning in the 2031-2032 school year, all high school students must complete a computer science course or a career, technical, and agricultural education (CTAE) course that incorporates computer science principles to graduate.

  • Substitution for Graduation Credits:

    • The computer science course can substitute for credits in other subject areas, including:
    • One unit of math (with specific exceptions)
    • One unit of science (with specific exceptions)
    • One unit of CTAE credit
    • One unit of modern language or Latin credit
    • One unit of fine arts credit
    • One unit of elective credit

  • Implementation Timeline:

    • 2022-2023: Each local school system must offer at least one high school computer science course.
    • 2023-2024: At least 50% of high schools in each local school system must offer a computer science course.
    • 2024-2025: All high schools in each local school system must offer a computer science course.

  • Professional Development: The bill emphasizes the need for high-quality professional learning for teachers to effectively deliver computer science education.

Affected Parties

  • Students: All high school students in Georgia will be required to take a computer science course to graduate.
  • Local School Systems: School districts will need to adapt their curricula and resources to meet the new requirements.
  • Teachers: Educators will require training and support to teach computer science effectively.

Legislative Status

  • Introduced: February 18, 2025
  • Current Status: The bill is currently in the House Second Readers stage as of February 20, 2025.

Conclusion

House Bill 487 represents a significant step towards integrating computer science education into the core curriculum of Georgia's high schools. By establishing a graduation requirement for computer science, the bill aims to equip students with essential skills for the 21st century, addressing both educational needs and workforce demands.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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