Rep. Jason Hughes has introduced a bill that would require computer science to be a mandatory requirement for high school graduation in Louisiana. If approved, this requirement would take effect for the 2027-28 school year. The bill passed the Senate Education Committee without any objections.
House Bill 264 aims to make computer science an essential part of the high school curriculum for students in Louisiana public schools. Additionally, computer science would become a requirement for students to be eligible for any Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) awards.
Under this bill, students pursuing TOPS Opportunity, Performance, and Honors awards must complete one credit of computer science either as part of their math or science courses or in place of a foreign language. For TOPS Tech recipients, they have the option to fulfill their math or science requirements with computer science courses or electives.
The implementation of the computer science requirement would begin partially in the 2027-28 school year. Graduates in 2028 aiming for TOPS awards must substitute computer science for the foreign language requirement. However, for TOPS Tech recipients in 2028, computer science cannot be used to fulfill existing requirements.
Previously, Sen. Sharon Hewitt secured approval for a bill enabling students to substitute two credits of computer science for a foreign language for TOPS eligibility. Rep. Hughes’ bill now advances to the Senate floor for further review and consideration.