In this Wednesday, June 19, 2013 photo, instructor Thaddeus Owings, left, helps camper Nicholas Sanchez work on creating a video game while at an iD Tech Camp at the Emory University campus, in Atlanta. So-called coding camps for kids are becoming more popular amid a growing effort to expand access to computer programming and inspire more youths to seek computer science degrees and later careers in technology. (AP Photo/Jaime Henry-White)
Virginia Gov. Ralph Northamannouncednew school grants aimed at promoting computer science education.
Northam said Monday he had approved a total of $1.3 million in grants to a number of public schools and colleges.
Lawmakers authorized the grants last year, which are to be used on professional development for teachers, instructional resources and other areas related to computer science.
“Knowing the basics of computer science can open doors to virtually any career in our fast-growing 21st-century economy,” Northam said in a statement.
We're making it easier for you to find stories that matter with our new newsletter — The 4Front. Sign up here and get news that is important for you to your inbox.
Low-performing schools were given a priority for the funding.
School districts and universities throughout the state have been awarded grants, including several in the greater D.C. area.
Prince William County Schools will receive $125,000 to promote partnerships with colleges, universities and government agencies that give teachers professional development opportunities.
Local
Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia local news, events and information
Stafford County Public Schools are set to receive $118,481 to promote computer science education for grades 3 to 8.
George Mason University also received $125,000 for programs.
