3 universities awarded grants to build computer science learning hubs

Rutgers, FDU, Kean tasked with increasing opportunities in N.J.

Rutgers University, Fairleigh Dickinson University and Kean University were each given grants of approximately $265,000 in an effort to create computer science learning hubs throughout New Jersey, the state announced Tuesday.

The Expanding Access to Computer Science: Professional Learning Grants will help provide high-quality professional learning for educators and resources for school districts to increase computer science opportunities for students. The grants — which are funded through the Fiscal Year 2021 Appropriations Act — also will help the three universities build partnerships with stakeholders to promote the growth of computer science education.

The grants support the vision in Gov. Phil Murphy’s Computer Science State Plan, which details the state’s approach to supporting and expanding equitable access to high-quality computer science education for all K-12 students.

The Department of Education estimates that the learning hubs will lead to approximately 3,000 students receiving equitable, high-quality computer science education during the grant period, which runs until Aug. 31, 2022.

The schools were awarded the following amounts:

  • FDU: $263,339;
  • Kean: $266,665;
  • Rutgers: $266,665.

“New Jersey is committed to ensuring our students have access to a high-quality education in computer science that will open up doors for them in the future,” Murphy said. “The learning hubs will provide opportunities for educators to be on the forefront of computer science education, and to share that knowledge to students in the classroom. These efforts will contribute to the academic growth of our students and the economic growth of our state.”

Angelica Allen-McMillan, acting commissioner of education, said the grants are part of a vision that will enable New Jersey schools to prepare students for success in a knowledge-based economy.

“This initiative will help toward the goal of providing equitable access to high-quality computer science education,” she said.