New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A05689

Introduced
2/20/25  
Refer
2/20/25  

Caption

Creates a computer science course requirement for graduation from high school; directs the department of education to design and implement such program.

Summary

Bill A05689 proposes to amend the education law in New York to establish a requirement for high school students to complete at least one computer science course in order to graduate. The bill defines 'computer science' and outlines the necessary components of the required courses, including their approval by the Department of Education. Additionally, it mandates that the courses be offered in person, with provisions for virtual learning only when in-person instruction is not feasible. The bill also includes reporting requirements for school districts regarding the computer science courses offered and the demographics of instructors teaching these courses.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will significantly alter the high school graduation requirements in New York by introducing a mandatory computer science course. This change aims to enhance students' technological literacy and prepare them for a workforce increasingly reliant on technology. The bill also establishes a new supervisory position within the Department of Education to oversee the implementation of these requirements, which may lead to increased state oversight of computer science education.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A05689 appears to be generally positive, as it aligns with national trends emphasizing the importance of computer science education. However, there may be concerns regarding the feasibility of implementing such requirements, especially in under-resourced districts that may struggle to provide adequate computer science courses.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the requirement for in-person instruction, which could be challenging for some districts. Additionally, there may be debates regarding the adequacy of existing resources to support the new curriculum and the potential impact on students who may not have access to computer science education prior to high school. Some stakeholders may argue that the requirement could disproportionately affect students in lower-income areas.

Companion Bills

NY S08202

Same As Creates a computer science course requirement for graduation from high school; directs the department of education to design and implement such program.

Previously Filed As

NY S08202

Creates a computer science course requirement for graduation from high school; directs the department of education to design and implement such program.

NY HB487

Quality Basic Education Act; computer science course shall be a high school graduation requirement beginning in 2031; provide

NY SB249

"Quality Basic Education Act,"; beginning in the 2031-2032 school year, a computer science course shall be a high school graduation requirement; provide

NY HB3139

Establishes additional requirements for computer science courses in schools

NY SB558

Requiring computer science course prior to graduation

NY HB372

Provides relative to computer science as a high school graduation requirement (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

NY H3201

Computer Science Education Initiative Act

NY HB1283

High school graduation requirements and diploma pathways; implementation.

NY SB724

High school graduation requirements and diploma pathways; implementation.

NY SB2535

MS Future Innovators Act; enact to require high-school computer science or CTE with embedded computer science course.

Similar Bills

AR SB425

To Amend Various Provisions Of The Arkansas Code Concerning Enhanced Transportation; And To Declare An Emergency.

TX HB5663

Relating to the authority of the Wood County Central Hospital District of Wood County, Texas, to provide brain and memory care services to residents of the hospital district through the creation and operation of brain and memory health care services districts.

KY HR1

A RESOLUTION establishing the 2026 membership of the Kentucky State House of Representatives.

KY HR1

A RESOLUTION establishing the 2025 membership of the Kentucky State House of Representatives.

LA HB719

Provides relative to the number of assistant district attorneys in each judicial district (RE +$2,274,000 GF EX See Note)

KY HR1

A RESOLUTION establishing the 2022 membership of the Kentucky State House of Representatives.

LA SB454

Provides for a population based allocation of assistant district attorney positions in the state. (7/1/26) (OR +$397,950 GF EX See Note)

VA HB29

Chaptered