WHEREAS, Computer Science, IT, and Technology Education provide fundamental learning in computational thinking that enables students to develop and apply critical thinking skills, demonstrate imagination and creativity, practice collaboration, exhibit leadership, and employ problem-solving skills; and
WHEREAS, computing technology is an integral part of modern life and is transforming how people interact with each other and the world around them; and
WHEREAS, according to Code.org, minority students and first-generation college going students who study computer science in high school are at least three times more likely to major in computer science in college; women who study computer science in high school are at least five times more likely to major in computer science in college; and
WHEREAS, the outlook for computer science jobs is bright, with over 200,000 open computing positions across the country and over 16,000 computing jobs in North Carolina as of 2023; and
WHEREAS, to ensure that North Carolina has a workforce prepared for the jobs of today and tomorrow, our state must provide more opportunities for our students to engage in computer science and learn coding skills, especially in our K-12 schools; and
WHEREAS, all students deserve a thorough preparation in computer science education, including access to highly qualified and well-prepared teachers, technology, age-appropriate curriculum needed to learn computer science at the elementary and secondary levels of education, and the opportunity to count computer science classes towards their high school graduation; and
WHEREAS, in May 2022, Governor Cooper joined together with the National Governors Association and Governors from around the country to sign the Compact to Expand K-12 Computer Science Education; and
WHEREAS, the week of December 4, in honor of Grace Hopper's birthday, is designated as Computer Science Education Week;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim December 4 – 10, 2023, as “COMPUTER SCIENCE EDUCATION WEEK” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.