There’s exciting news for computer science education in Minnesota! The recent Code.org 2024 State of CS Ed Report shows we’ve jumped from 50th to 48th place in terms of high school access to foundational computer science courses. While this is a small improvement, it represents the largest increase in high schools offering computer science among all states!

This progress highlights the dedication of educators and policymakers in Minnesota. However, the report also reveals we still have a long way to go. Here are some key takeaways:

• Only 36% of Minnesota public high schools offer foundational computer science. Nationally, the average is 60%.
• Young women and several student groups are underrepresented in computer science courses.

This is a crucial time for computer science education. Research shows that computer science courses can significantly increase student earnings, especially for low-income students, Black students, and young women.

The Good News: Minnesota Has a Plan!

The Minnesota Computer Science Working Group published a state plan in March 2024. This plan proposes 10 recommendations to expand access to computer science, including:

• Establishing an advisory committee.
• Creating flexible teacher certification pathways.
• Implementing grant programs.
• Requiring computer science integration in grades K-8.
• Requiring all high schools to offer computer science.

What We Can Do:

We can all play a role in advancing computer science education in Minnesota. Here are some ways you can get involved:

• Encourage your local school district to offer computer science courses.
• Support organizations like SciMathMN that advocate for computer science education.
• Consider volunteering as a computer science mentor for students.

By working together, we can ensure that all Minnesota students have the opportunity to learn computer science and prepare for success in a technology-driven world.

Learn More:

• Read the full Code.org 2024 State of CS Ed Report: https://bit.ly/StateofCSEduReport2024
• Minnesota Computer Science Working Group State Plan: https://bit.ly/MDECSEduPlan2024

Let’s make Minnesota a leader in computer science education!

Join SciMathMN for an engaging breakout session at the upcoming MN STEM Convening on October 14th, 2024 at the Dean Lakes Education Center in Shakopee, MN.

This FREE event is a fantastic opportunity to connect with colleagues, share best practices, and explore the future of STEM education in Minnesota.

Here’s why you should attend:

• Engaging Breakout Sessions: SciMathMN will be hosting a session titled “Building Forward” Discussion. This interactive session will be a great place to share ideas, network with peers, and explore innovative approaches to STEM education.
• Network with the STEM Community: Meet and collaborate with educators, afterschool program providers, industry leaders, and more!
• Explore the Latest Trends: Gain insights into K-12 STEM & CS updates from the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) and learn about exciting regional STEM activities.
• Free Registration: The MN STEM Convening is completely free to attend!

Don’t delay! Register today to secure your spot at this exciting event. ➡️ www.stemmn.org

Full Agenda:

• 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM: Registration
• 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Event Schedule (including breakout sessions, panel discussions, and networking opportunities)

We look forward to seeing you there!

We are thrilled to announce Sarah Ness as the new Chair of the SciMathMN Board of Directors! Sarah brings a wealth of experience in STEM education, leadership, and community building to this role. Her passion for empowering youth and her deep understanding of the Minnesota STEM ecosystem make her an ideal leader for SciMathMN. To learn more and view the entire newsletter, click here

Call for Board Members

SciMathMN invites community members to join the Board of Directors for the 2024/25 season. This is an exciting time for our growing organization. We are seeking a mix of business/industry leaders, workforce experts, education, and STEM advocates to help steer SciMathMN in the coming years. To learn more, please review the Board Member Description attachment. To express your interest, please complete the Board member application and return it via email to Colleen Riley, Executive Director, execdir@scimathmn.org.

SciMathMN Board Application

SciMathMN Board Member Description

Participants weathered a powerful ice storm and challenging roads to ensure the 2024 STEM Day at the Capitol was a successful endeavor. Over 30 organizations participated in the STEM showcase for policymakers, staffers and the media. Minnesota’s STEM community is doing is doing its part to prepare young people for impactful careers in STEM. SciMathMN was pleased to partner with the Minnesota STEM Ecosystem, under the leadership of Emily Sead. A special thank you to Cap O’Rourke for helping us navigate logistics and the State Capitol, and STEMx for serving a sponsor of the program. To view a video recap of the day, CLICK HERE.