Legislators across Mississippi are listening as constituents continue to press for computer science education in our public schools through C Spire's proposed Computer Science Bill.

Mississippi Senate Bill 2284 — sponsored by Sen. Scott Delano with co-sponsor support from Sens. Kevin Blackwell, Joel Carter, Nicole Boyd, Kathy Chism, Daniel Sparks, Tyler McCaughn and Jeff Tate—provides a roadmap to bringing computer science education to every school in the state. Additionally, House Education Chair Richard Bennett has introduced Mississippi House Bill 1165 with similar language to the Senate bill.

"Computer science is problem-solving, creativity and abstract thinking," says teacher Bethany Lucas of Oxford, Miss. "Computer science is problem-solving, creativity and abstract thinking," says teacher Bethany Lucas. She is among a growing number of educators who want the community to realize the impact that computer science is having on students. "These students start to see that there are numerous opportunities out there in software development - high-paying jobs that they would enjoy."

C Spire is committed to advancing technology throughout the state of Mississippi. That's why we've launched a statewide campaign working with state legislators to pass a bill that requires computer science education in our public schools. Learn more here.

When I was growing up, the 3Rs served as the educational building blocks for those seeking higher level education on their way to rewarding adulthood careers. Today, STEM, which stands for science, technology, engineering and math, is the word you’ll hear most often when teachers, parents and students discuss imperatives for education and jobs in the 21^st century digital economy.

The state’s future is at stake. From our children to our economy, everything is on the line when it comes to a lack of computer science education in Mississippi schools. C Spire recently launched the “Mississippi’s Future Can’t Wait” campaign with a powerful TV commercial showing the negative impact of being behind other states who are teaching computer science in schools. The campaign’s goal is to bring computer science education to all Mississippi public schools.

Technology connects families separated by thousands of miles. It dramatically advances the healthcare industry with mind-boggling high-tech procedures (think remote surgeries by specialists) and significantly reduces medical mistakes. We live safer, more organized, and highly informed lives because of technology. 

With these advancements brings an immense need for a well-equipped technical workforce. However, the depth of this demand is not reflected in most Mississippi schools.