Current through Register Vol. 49, No. 6, March 15, 2024
PURPOSE: This rule sets forth requirements relating
to computer 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 712 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.
