The C Spire Foundation has donated $180,000 to Mississippi State University to support the development of online K-12 computer science courses for Mississippi students. This initiative builds on a previous $1 million donation in 2021 to train over 3,000 K-12 teachers in computer science education. The donation comes as a response to the passing of House Bill 633, which requires all K-12 public schools in Mississippi to teach computer science by the 2024-2025 academic year.
The partnership between the C Spire Foundation and the Center for Cyber Education at MSU aims to provide high schools with free access to quality computer science courses, including Exploring Computer Science and Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles. These online courses will be instructed by qualified Mississippi teachers, with schools expected to provide a classroom space and facilitator for students.
The Center for Cyber Education has been recognized for its efforts in advancing computer science education in Mississippi, with significant growth seen in the number of teachers trained and students enrolled in computer science classes. C Spire has been actively involved in promoting computer science education in Mississippi since 2015, with initiatives such as coding challenges, academies, and accelerated degree programs.
The C Spire Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization funded by C Spire, focuses on providing grants for STEM and STEAM education in K-12 and higher education institutions in Mississippi. C Spire is a leading telecommunications and technology services company that offers a range of services for consumers and businesses. More information about C Spire and the MSU Center for Cyber Education can be found on their respective websites.
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Photo credit www.msstate.edu
