Code Kansas
Computer science and AI education for Kansas schools and districts.
Why Computer Science Matters in Kansas
Learning coding and computer science is increasingly important for Kansas's future. Computing occupations are driving job growth and innovation across the economy.
High Demand Jobs
Kansas had around 5,751 open computing jobs each month in 2023, with an average salary near $90,000 – almost double the average state salary.
Workforce Development
By equipping students with CS skills, Kansas can help meet workforce demand and close the tech talent gap.
Future Ready
Rapid advances in technology like AI highlight the need for foundational CS understanding for all students.
K–12 Computer Science Standards and Curriculum
Kansas has established a strong foundation with statewide K–12 computer science standards. In April 2019, the Kansas State Board of Education adopted model CS standards for grades PreK–12.
PreK-5 Foundation
- • Algorithms and problem-solving
- • Basic programming concepts
- • Digital citizenship
- • Computational thinking
6-8 Development
- • Programming and development
- • Data and analysis
- • Networks and the internet
- • Cybersecurity fundamentals
9-12 Advanced
- • AP Computer Science courses
- • Software engineering
- • AI and machine learning
- • Career pathway preparation
Kansas Computer Science Education Policies
PACK Act (HB 2466)
Signed into law in May 2022, this bipartisan legislation requires that every secondary school offer at least one computer science course by the 2023–2024 school year.
Graduation Credit Option
Computer science courses can now count toward graduation requirements, allowing students to substitute CS for a required math or science credit with district approval.
Implementation Progress
State Support for Teachers and Schools
Kansas has backed CS education implementation with funding and initiatives to support teachers, including $2 million in appropriations for teacher professional development.
K-State Cyber Pipeline
Free graduate certificate in computer science education for in-service teachers, covering college-level CS content with pedagogy.
Teacher Scholarships
Up to $1,000 scholarships for preservice teachers or licensed teachers pursuing CS coursework or licensure.
Professional Development
Multiple PD opportunities through organizations and universities, often at low or no cost thanks to state investment.
Student Opportunities and Pathways
Kansas students now have more opportunities than ever to engage with computer science from kindergarten through high school, with pathways to continue their education at Kansas universities.
Elementary Foundation
Block-based coding, robotics, and computational thinking through Code.org's CS Fundamentals.
Middle School Exploration
CS Discoveries, robotics teams, and coding clubs to explore programming concepts.
High School Advancement
AP Computer Science A & Principles, dual-credit courses, and college bridge programs.
Extracurricular Activities
Coding Competitions
FIRST Robotics, Lego League, Congressional App Challenge, and local hackathons.
Hour of Code
Annual December event to spark interest in coding across Kansas schools.
Awards & Recognition
"Kansas Tech Student of the Year" award at the Ad Astra Technology Summit.
College Pathways
Strong CS programs at KU, K-State, Wichita State, and other Kansas universities.
Resources for Kansas Educators and Students
Whether you're just starting a coding program or looking to enhance an existing one, there are many resources available in Kansas.
Teacher Training
K-State Cyber Pipeline, CodeHS PD, CSTA Kansas, CS4KS Conference
Community Support
CSTA Kansas, FlagshipKansas.Tech, local STEM nonprofits
Student Resources
Girls Who Code, FIRST Robotics, Khan Academy, Scratch programming
CS Education Events in Kansas
Join the vibrant community of educators, students, and industry professionals advancing computer science education across Kansas through conferences, competitions, and professional development events.
Upcoming Events
CS4KS Conference 2025
Four-day conference for Kansas K–12 teachers featuring hands-on workshops, panels on best practices, and keynote speakers discussing broadening participation in tech.
Ad Astra Technology Summit
Kansas tech conference featuring sessions on K–12 CS education, STEM initiatives, and networking opportunities with industry leaders.
Hour of Code Week
Annual December event to spark interest in coding across Kansas schools with free tutorials and activities for all grade levels.
Student Competitions
FIRST Robotics Competition
High school teams design, build, and program robots to compete in challenging field games against like-minded competitors.
Congressional App Challenge
National coding competition for high school students to create apps addressing issues in their communities, with Kansas district competitions.
Kansas Tech Student of the Year
Annual recognition at the Ad Astra Technology Summit honoring exceptional K–12 students demonstrating excellence in technology and computer science.
Community Organizations
CSTA Kansas
Local chapter of the Computer Science Teachers Association providing networking, resources, and professional development for Kansas educators.
FlagshipKansas.Tech
Consortium of Kansas tech companies championing K–12 CS access and organizing the Ad Astra Tech Summit with educational focus.
ALT+CS Lab
Kansas State University's education research lab organizing the CS4KS conference and supporting CS education research initiatives.