Pilot grant backed to expand computer science in schools lacking CS courses
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Summary
The committee approved AB 887, a non‑state‑funded demonstration grant program backed by private grantors to get computer science into high schools that currently offer no computer science courses, prioritizing underrepresented students and geographic diversity.
Assemblymember Berman’s office presented AB 887 (presented in committee by a surrogate) to create the California Computer Science Demonstration Grant Program. The program would be a non‑state‑funded pilot administered by a private funding entity in coordination with a working group; the author’s intent is to seed computer science instruction in schools that currently lack any CS offerings.
Supporters included public school teachers and national education nonprofits. Amy Pizzoni, a Central Valley public high school teacher, said the pilot helps schools “start small” and build capacity: “Students want this, families want this, but they are at the mercy of the school that serves them. AB 887 offers a way for schools to get started on this journey.” Adam Johnson of the College Board said the pilot would prioritize schools that serve students underrepresented in computer science and consider geographic diversity when awarding grants.
The committee adopted the measure and advanced it to Senate Appropriations. The bill was described as a creative, privately funded first step toward “computer science for all.”
