Bill would allow coding to take place of foreign language

RICHMOND — A bill has been introduced in the House of Delegates that would allow high school students to substitute computer coding for the foreign language requirement for a high school diploma.

The bill was introduced on Tuesday and referred to the committee on education. The sponsor of the bill is Del. Glenn R. Davis, R-Virginia Beach.

The summary of the bill is: "Requires the Board, in establishing high school graduation requirements, to provide for the substitution of computer coding course credit for any foreign language course credit required to graduate, except in cases in which such foreign language course credit is required to earn an advanced diploma offered by a nationally recognized provider of college-level courses."

A number of area school divisions have been focusing on STEM initiatives and introducing programs surrounding those activities, including coding. A number of area schools participate in the annual "Hour of Code" event nationwide. There has also been a push in Staunton, Waynesboro and Augusta County for more technology in the hands of students.

For more information about bills in the committee for education check here.

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