BRIDGEWATER, NJ--There are over 500,000 computer science jobs nationwide going unfilled, but New Jersey may have the answer.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy is announcing two-million-dollars in grant money for his Computer Science For All plan. It aims to expand on the computer science courses offered to students throughout the state, by focusing on five distinct goals.
“Expanding and improving computer science programs in our public schools will help provide our students with the critical thinking skills they need to succeed in today’s global economy,” said Governor Murphy in an announcement. “Computers and technology are integral to our society and workforce, and students must be given the opportunity to learn and master these foundation skills.”
Included are measures aimed at increasing the number of computer science teachers, adopting universal standards across the state, and establishing a data-driven approach.
“Our mission is clear: We are committed to providing equitable access to a high-quality computer science education for all students,” said Dr. Lamont O. Repollet, Commissioner of Education. “Through our state plan, we are making a statement that we want New Jersey to be a leader in equipping students with high-level computer science and technology skills.”
Governor Murphy says that there are currently 500-thousand-unfilled computer science jobs in the U.S., with over 15-thousand in New Jersey alone.