The New Hampshire Department of Education (NHED) is launching its UpGrade initiative, which aims to increase the number of credentialed computer science teachers in the state.
Given the increase in demand for computer science courses, the UpGrade initiative is creating pathways for both existing teachers to become credentialed in computer science, along with ways for technology professionals to become computer science educators.
“This program encourages current educators and industry professionals to upgrade their skills and pass on their passion for technology and computer science to our youth. It also inspires new graduates, career changers and expert retirees to consider teaching subjects in the computer science sector,” said Frank Edelblut, the state’s education commissioner.
“Topics such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, coding and data science can easily intersect with curriculum and be seamlessly incorporated into classroom learning,” he said. “By helping to increase career readiness for our students, New Hampshire is simultaneously building a strong computer science pipeline.”
The program offers reimbursement to eligible teachers for successfully acquiring industry-recognized credentials in computer science. NHED will reimburse the cost of any exams or licensure costs for qualified credentials, up to a total of $2,000. In addition, teachers will receive a stipend for each credential acquired, up to a total of $750.
Industry professionals already working in computer science, cybersecurity, software engineering, or related fields that hold industry-recognized credentials are eligible for a $10,000 bonus for becoming teachers, with that amount divided through three years.
“Computational thinking is a vital skill for today’s youth. By having educators in New Hampshire that are credentialed to teach computer science, students will not only be prepared for the future job market, but their tech knowledge will be valuable across all industries,” said Stephen Appleby, director of NHED’s Division of Educator Support and Higher Education.
