Students, educators, and state officials gathered in Montgomery on Monday for the 2025 Alabama Computer Science Summit, a statewide event highlighting the rapid growth and importance of computer science education.
The summit provided opportunities for students to explore potential tech careers while educators participated in sessions to strengthen their classroom practices and learn new instructional strategies. Organizers emphasized that computer science skills are valuable across various industries, not just in traditional tech roles.
Amanda Dykes, Alabama’s computer science education specialist, said student involvement in computer science courses has increased significantly — tripling over the past five years. She noted that the subject often resonates with students who may not perform well on conventional assessments or in writing-based coursework. According to Dykes, many of these students thrive in computer science classrooms where they can learn through trial and error, hands-on activities, and creative problem-solving.
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A major highlight of the event was the presentation of awards for the 2025 Governor’s App Challenge, which celebrates student innovation in app development. Governor Kay Ivey honored the winners during a luncheon ceremony.
Following the summit, Ivey wrote on X that Alabama’s future is bright.
The future of Alabama is in innovative hands.
Today’s Governor’s Computer Science Summit Luncheon was all about celebrating Alabama’s young talent.
I was proud to recognize the impressive students who took home top honors in this year’s Governor’s App Challenge. #alpolitics pic.twitter.com/T2FZWC4IEC
— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) April 15, 2025
The summit also underscored Alabama’s long-term goal to integrate computer science across all educational levels. Starting in 2032, all high school students in the state will be required to complete a computer science course to graduate — a move aimed at equipping future generations with the skills needed in an increasingly digital workforce.
Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
