Claysburg-Kimmel, W-burg Receive Computer Science Funding

Building on his commitment to prepare students to use computers and technology in their careers, Gov. Tom Wolf on Thursday, Jan. 17, announced $8.7 million in targeted grants to expand computer science classes and teacher training at 765 schools across the commonwealth.

The Claysburg-Kimmel and Williamsburg Community school districts are among those who were selected to receive the grants.

The targeted grants represent the next phase of the governor’s new and innovative PAsmart initiative, which will provide $20 million to bring high-quality computer science and STEM education in elementary, middle and high schools and professional development for teachers. With this commitment, Pennsylvania now ranks second in the country for investments in K-12 STEM and computer science.

“Over the next decade, seven in ten new jobs in Pennsylvania will require workers to use computers and new technologies in a constantly changing economy,” Gov. Wolf. “With these grants more students will get the skills they need for emerging high-demand jobs.

“Through these investments we are building a well-trained workforce that will meet the needs of employers, strengthen the middle class, and grow the economy for everyone.”

“The grant will be used to integrate computer science initiatives at our elementary and junior/senior high school,” Darren McLaurin, C-K superintendent, said. “The grant has 2 phases – Professional Development and Equipment Requests

“We plan on attending the Apple “Everyone Can Create Training” and purchasing the necessary hardware and software through Apple.”

Said Lisa Murgas, Williamsburg Community superintendent, “Currently, we have a STEM program in place that targets several groups of students, but we are looking at using this grant to create a more robust STEM program to target all K-12 students.”

In addition to helping schools introduce and expand computer science programming, the targeted grants will provide greater opportunities for students of color, low-income students and girls to learn critical skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce.

“Equity continues to be an area of focus for Pennsylvania’s schools by providing access and opportunities to all students regardless of zip code,” Education Secretary Pedro Rivera said. “The PAsmart targeted grants will help to address opportunity gaps, boosting participation among historically under-served and underrepresented student populations.”

Targeted grant recipients include 221 school districts, two career and technical centers, 18 charter and cyber charter schools and eight intermediate units, each of which will receive $35,000.

Additional funding in the $30 million PAsmart initiative for science and technology education, apprenticeships and job training will be announced in the coming weeks.