The Computer Science Professional Development Incentive Fund has extended its application deadline to Nov. 4. Awardees will be announced during Computer Science Education Week in early December. This updated time frame will help accommodate Iowa schools and districts busy with the start of the new school year with additional time to plan for computer science professional development needs.
Through a $500,000 state appropriation, this grant funding supports schools implementing the new requirement of providing high-quality K-12 computer science instruction. Iowa school districts, accredited nonpublic schools, Area Education Agencies and other interested collaboratives are encouraged to apply for funding to assist with computer science professional development training and endorsements.
In 2020, House File 2629 established that all accredited Iowa high schools provide at least one computer science course by the 2022-23 school year. Additionally, middle schools must offer computer science instruction in either seventh or eighth grade starting in 2023-24. Elementary schools must also provide computer science instruction in at least one grade by the 2023-24 school year.
Application details on the Computer Science Professional Development Incentive Fund can be found on the Department’s website. All questions and requests for technical assistance can be directed to consultant Justin Lewis at justin.lewis@iowa.gov.