|
Computer science equips students to thrive in today’s digital economy, and empowers them to explore career opportunities in a rapidly growing area of STEM. By the 2022-23 school year, every high school in the state must offer an elective computer science course; however, a shortage of educators with computer science credentials could prevent many schools from achieving this.
To help improve student access to computer science and reduce educator workforce shortages, the Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) is offering grants of up to $25,000 for organizations to support educators seeking credentials in computer science.
Applications are due October 4. View the grant information packet to learn more about the grant and application process.
Who may apply?
Washington State school districts, tribal schools, ESDs, approved clock hour providers, PESB-approved educator preparation programs and higher education institutions are eligible to apply.
Organizations eligible to become approved clock hour providers are also eligible to apply. These organizations must have applied for approval as a clock hour provider for the 2021-22 school year (or intend to apply for the 2022-23 school year if the previous clock hour provider application deadline has passed). Learn about becoming an approved clock hour provider.
What is the grant’s focus?
PESB’s vision is to have an equity-minded educator workforce that facilitates learning and growth for each and every student. With that in mind, the computer science grant must include educators from populations that have been historically underrepresented and systematically excluded from the educator workforce. Each grantee must support a minimum of 15 educators.
Grantees must:
- Support educators in seeking one of the elementary or secondary computer science specialty endorsements, or computer science endorsement, OR provide guidance to educators on how to seek one of these computer science credentials;
-
And, provide professional learning related to computer science.
Informational webinar
We are hosting an informational webinar on September 9 at 2 p.m. to provide an overview of the grant application process. We encourage those interested in applying to attend. Register to attend the webinar.
Request accommodations
We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to fully engage and participate. If you have a disability and require special accommodations or assistance, please email us at pesb@k12.wa.us and one of our staff members will reach out to you. Requests should be made as soon as possible but at least five business days prior to the scheduled event, meeting, or webinar.
Questions? Please contact:
- Leiani Sherwin, Program Manager for Professional Learning and Program Support, at Leiani.Sherwin@k12.wa.us or 360-867-8020, or
- Maren Johnson, Associate Director, Preparation and Credentialing, at Maren.Johnson@k12.wa.us or 360-867-8424
|
