Photo courtesy: Stanford Graduate School of Education
As Gov. Ron DeSantis looks to reform Florida’s state education system, this year’s legislative session is once again inundated with bills seeking to deregulate and overhaul the public school system.
Senate Bill 1344, also known as Computer Science Education, proposed by Republican Sen. Alexis Calatayud of Miami, would add computer science skills to the state’s academic standards for the 2025-2026 academic year.
If passed, this bill would require K-12 students in public and public charter schools to learn computer skills and would create an Education Task Force on Artificial Intelligence within the state Department of Education.
The task force, which would be established in October 2024, would determine the application of artificial intelligence in K-12 and higher education to develop policy recommendations for the responsible and effective use of artificial intelligence.
However, SB 1344 has languished in the Senate Fiscal Policy Committee since Feb. 8 and has little chance of making it to the floor for a vote before the session ends Friday.
If SB 1344 was approved, students and teachers would have the opportunity to work with artificial intelligence software to create a positive relationship between Internet software. The classes will allow students to fulfill their math requirements for high school graduation.
Brandi Gritman, a computer science teacher and CTE coordinator at HL Watkins Middle in Palm Beach Gardens, likes the idea of incorporating computer science classes along with artificial intelligence into the school curriculum.
“I currently use AI software in the classroom to help students complete their homework and even offer tutoring services when I’m out of school,” Gritman said.
“The inclusion of these classes will level the playing field when it comes to the disconnect between teachers and students who do not understand how to use computer software along with artificial intelligence tools. If students are taught how to use the software properly, this will be a great tool to help them along their educational journey.”
According to Forbes.com 60% of teachers use AI in their classroom. In a survey conducted by the company, younger teachers are more likely to adopt these tools, with respondents under the age of 26 reporting the highest rates of use.
Veneise Harrell, assistant principal at Riviera Beach Preparatory and Achievement Academy, disagrees with the inclusion of SB 1344.
“I believe teachers should first be trained in AI software before introducing it to our students,” Harrell said.
Harrell shared her concerns about using this to meet math requirements for schools.
“Students already have a lot of demands, so adding this to the curriculum could cause more stress for students.”
In addition, Harrell also sees the benefits of SB 1344, saying these mandatory courses will help keep students safe online.
“I think computer science courses along with AI workgroups will better equip students for cybersecurity needs,” Harrell said. “Courses like these will give students the keys to staying safe online as technology becomes more advanced every day.”
For more information and updates on SB 1344, visit the Florida Senate page.