Guidance Document Change: Subsection D 14 of ยง 22.1-253.13:4 of the Code of Virginia requires the Board to develop guidelines addressing how computer science courses can satisfy graduation requirements.
The 2015 Virginia Board of Education Guidelines for the Use of Computer Science Courses to Satisfy Graduation Requirements currently allow for Advanced Placement Computer Science A to meet graduation requirements for students pursuing both standard and advanced diploma types as a mathematics, science, or Career and Technical Education (CTE) credit. At the request of stakeholders, including division school counselors and parents, the International Baccalaureate (IB) Computer Science course was reviewed by Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) staff in the Office of STEM and Innovation and the Office of Career, Technology, and Adult Education (CTAE) for inclusion in the Guidelines. After review, VDOE staff recommend the addition of the IB Computer Science course to the current guidelines. The rigor of the IB Computer Science course coupled with the inquiry nature of the content and practices reflect best practices in mathematics, science, and CTE. The recommended addition would allow IB Computer Science to be used to satisfy mathematics, science, or Career and Technical Education (CTE) graduation requirements.
Commenter:
Amy Ca$hwell
Fully support the Governor's guidance
