Issue Position: Making Virginia the Best State in the Nation for STEM-H and Computer Science Education

Issue Position

Creating Opportunity for All Virginia Students to Achieve Careers in Fast-Growing Sector

The Plan
As Virginia's next Governor, Terry will make the Commonwealth the best state in the nation for STEM-H and computer science education and ensure all Virginia students, no matter their background or zip code, can access the growing STEM-H and computer science fields. To do so, Terry will integrate STEM-H and computer science principles across all subjects and grade levels, address the digital equity divide, leverage public-private partnerships to build the workforce of the future through virtual internships and regional innovation labs, increase supplemental learning opportunities, and attract high-paying jobs to every corner of the Commonwealth.

Terry's Record
As Virginia's 72nd Governor, Terry made Virginia the first state in the nation to mandate computer science education for all K-12 students, created grant programs for cybersecurity camps for students and cyber boot camps for teachers, and set a goal to graduate more than 50,000 Virginians every year from STEM-H training programs -- a goal that Virginia exceeded. Under Terry's leadership, Virginia led the nation for participation in the 2016 "NSA Day of Cyber" School Challenge, with almost 7,000 students participating.

The Work Ahead
Tackle the digital equity gap by ensuring students have computing devices at home and building a strong foundation of access to knowledge, skills, and resources.
Integrate STEM-H and computer science principles and skills into all subjects and grade levels in K-12 schools.
Equip educators with the knowledge and skills they need to understand and teach these principles, and foster inclusive learning environments
Cultivate public-private partnerships to advance STEM-H and computer science literacy, build the workforce of the future, and attract high-paying jobs to every corner of the Commonwealth.

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