Computer Science

PURPOSE: This rule sets forth requirements relating to computer AND SECONDARY EDUCATION science education, as outlined in section 170.018, RSMo. (1) A district may allow a student to fulfill up to one (1) unit of academic credit for high school graduation in mathematics, science, or practical arts with a district-approved computer science course, provided the district meets the criteria set forth in section 170.018.1.(2) and (3), RSMo. (A) In order for a district to allow computer science to fulfill a mathematics or science credit the student must have either taken, or be on track to take, courses that require end-of-course examinations for mathematics and science. A district electing to utilize mathematics credit must communicate to students that institutions of higher education may require four (4) units of academic credit in mathematics for college admission. In addition, the parent, guardian, or legal custodian of each student who chooses to take a computer science course to fulfill a mathematics credit shall sign and submit to the school district a document containing a statement acknowledging that taking a computer science course to fulfill a mathematics credit may have an adverse effect on college admissions. (B) A district must identify the type of credit earned by a student who has taken a district-approved computer science course for mathematics or science credit when filling out the course codes in the June Student Course Completion file with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (department). (2) Teachers of a computer science course for students in grades 7-12 must possess either— (A) A Missouri-issued teaching certificate at the appropriate grade level and one (1) of the following: 1. A passing score on the department-designated computer science assessment and department-issued computer science certificate; or 2. A bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science or some other computer science related four- (4-) year degree; or 3. Documented completion of a department-approved computer science training program or postsecondary course; or (B) A Visiting Scholar Certificate (only applicable for teachers of grades 9-12) and one (1) of the following: 1. An associate’s degree in computer science and an industry recognized credential in computer science or an industry-recognized credential in a computer science related field; or 2. A passing score on the department-designated computer science assessment; or 3. Documented completion of a department-approved computer science training program or postsecondary course. (3) The department administers the Computer Science Education Fund Grant Program. The fund shall be a dedicated fund and, upon appropriation, moneys in the fund shall be used solely for the administration of grants to eligible entities, as defined in section 170.018.4.(1), RSMo. (A) Eligible entities applying for grants must demonstrate that they meet the criteria set forth in section 170.018.4.(3)(a)- (f), RSMo. (B) Eligible entities must submit the reimbursement form to the department by June 15 of each year, even if the training has not yet occurred. Approved training must be completed on or before June 30 of the year in which the reimbursement is requested. AUTHORITY: section 161.092, RSMo 2016, and section 170.018, RSMo Supp. 2021.* Original rule filed Dec. 9, 2021, effective June 30, 2022. *Original authority: 161.092, RSMo 1963, amended 1973, 2002, 2003, 2013, 2014, and 170.018, RSMo 2018.