New Ohio bill would require computer science for high school graduation
Ohio is taking a major step toward prioritizing computer science education with new bipartisan legislation that would require students to complete a computer science course to graduate high school.
The bill, announced at a Statehouse press conference Wednesday, aims to prepare students for the modern workforce and strengthen Ohio’s position as a leader in tech education. Joining members of the legislature in announcing the bill were representatives from OhioX, the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, and Code.org.
The Big Picture
Speaker Pro Tempore Gayle Manning (R-North Ridgeville) and State Representative Don Jones (R-Freeport) are leading the legislation in the Ohio House, which seeks to expand access to computer science courses statewide. Under the bill:
All public high schools must offer at least one computer science course by the 2027-2028 school year.
Schools without an existing course must proactively notify parents about new offerings.
Schools unable to offer a course in a traditional classroom setting must submit a compliance plan to the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (ODEW) by June 30, 2027.
Starting with the Class of 2032, students must complete one unit of computer science between grades 8-12 to graduate.
“This legislation has been intentionally crafted to best serve Ohio schools and set students up for success in the modern workforce,” said Rep. Manning.
What They’re Saying
Rep. Don Jones (R-Freeport): “The goal of this bill is to set students up for success by allowing them to develop valuable skills and make Ohio a leader in tech education. There is no doubt this will be transformative to education in Ohio.”
Chris Berry, President & CEO of OhioX: “Every company is a technology company in today's economy, and innovation is transforming Ohio's industries—from healthcare to manufacturing, finance to logistics. Ohio’s businesses need a strong tech workforce, and Ohio’s students need a strong tech education. Computer science education is a vital part of the foundation for Ohio's future success.”
Rick Carfagna, SVP of Government Affairs, Ohio Chamber of Commerce: “Ohio’s economic competitiveness depends on a technologically proficient workforce prepared for jobs that have yet to even be invented. Until we prioritize the development of talent in our K-12 system through computer science, Ohio companies will continue looking out of state or applying for federal visas to fill tech jobs.”
Julia Wynn, Director of State Government Affairs, Code.org: “Although Ohio has made strides in prioritizing computer science, we still trail our neighboring states in access to this critical subject. A computer science graduation requirement has the most significant impact on improving access and participation across student groups.”
What’s Next
The legislation is expected to be introduced in the Ohio House soon, with a companion bill also being introduced in the Ohio Senate. If passed, it will reshape K-12 education in Ohio, ensuring students graduate with the technical skills needed to thrive in a digital economy.
OhioX and other industry leaders will continue advocating for policies that strengthen Ohio’s tech workforce pipeline and prepare students for the jobs of the future. This bill follows the launch of Ohio for Computer Science, an open letter signed by over 100 technology and business leaders calling on increased support for computer science education in the age of AI.