Computer Science Continuum

This grant project addresses significant equity gaps and workforce challenges in Orange County’s high-wage, high-demand Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)/Digital Media sector, where underserved student populations—particularly Hispanic/Latino students, English learners, students with disabilities, and females—are underrepresented despite the sector’s strong growth and wage potential. The project aims to create a Computer Science Continuum aligned with regional labor market needs and community college partners, providing no- or low-barrier access to computer science education, AI integration training for teachers, and a proven C-STEM math curriculum with robotics to enhance math and tech skills across middle and high schools, especially in underserved areas like the southwest district. By fostering collaboration with Fullerton College for dual enrollment and articulation, and targeting outreach and support services such as mentoring and tutoring, the plan seeks to close achievement gaps, increase participation and completion of ICT-related pathways, and prepare students for sustainable, high-paying careers in technology fields that reflect the region’s demographic diversity and economic demands.

This work plan focuses on enhancing curriculum and instruction to improve equity and access in computer science education across PYLUSD, funded by the K12 Strong Workforce Program. Key activities include providing paid professional development over three years to train 7-12 teachers in AI integration, with a focus on supporting underserved groups, alongside extensive C-STEM training for secondary math teachers paired with classroom robotics to concretize math concepts. The plan also funds resources for a dedicated CTE teacher at Valadez Middle School to establish a tech feeder program into Valencia High School’s ICT pathways. Strengthening alignment with Fullerton College through articulation meetings, dual enrollment offerings, field trips, and guest speakers will further support student transition to postsecondary opportunities. Measurable outcomes include increasing AI integration in teaching and student instruction, boosting enrollment of underrepresented students in ICT-related pathways and C-STEM courses, and raising dual enrollment and pathway completion rates among underserved populations by targeted percentages by June 2027.