Ranking Member Johnson Statement on Computer Science for All

(Dallas, TX) - Today, in his weekly address, President Obama announced the Computer Science for All initiative, a plan to "empower a generation of American students with the computer skills they need to thrive in a digital economy."

Ranking Member Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) said the following.

"I was excited to hear the announcement about Computer Science for All. 

"The importance of computer science education cannot be overstated. The current disconnect between the high demand for information technology jobs and the limited opportunities for students to be exposed to computer science at the K-12 level puts American students and American companies at a significant disadvantage. This initiative will help more students get a computer science education which will enable them to thrive in our digital economy.

"The President's plan relies on our federal agencies, educators, state and local governments, the private sector, philanthropists, and nonprofit organizations dedicated to expanding access to computer science education to take action. This 'all hands on deck' mentality is essential because no one entity can address this problem alone. We must all work together to leverage our respective strengths and resources to tackle this issue.  

"I think this is an important step in the right direction and I look forward to working with the President and my colleagues in Congress, those at NSF, and all who are involved to ensure that this is a success."