Despite explosive growth in New York’s tech sector, most public high schools still lack basic computer science instruction, according to a report from the Center for an Urban Future.
Only 52% of New York public high schools offer foundational computer science courses—far below states like Maryland and Arkansas. The issue is worse in cities like Syracuse, where no high school offers such a class. Experts warn this gap could force tech companies to hire out-of-state talent. Disparities also exist along racial, gender, and geographic lines.
The report urges the state to mandate K-12 computer science instruction, improve teacher training, and appoint a computing education director to prepare students for the modern economy.