Artificial intelligence education must be paired with computer science, as both topics share foundational concepts, new research shows. These states are ahead of the curve.
Colorado, Virginia, North Dakota and Ohio, for example, explicitly emphasize AI within their computer science standards, according to a new report from education innovation nonprofit Code.org.
However, not one state requires both AI and computer science for graduation, even though 12 states require computer science.
State leaders lack awareness that there is a fundamental tie between AI literacy and the foundational knowledge of computer science, argued Code.org President Cameron Wilson. Coupling the two may enhance students’ ability to succeed post-graduation as AI continues to impact nearly every job sector.
“AI without CS is superficial—it teaches students to use tools, not understand or shape them,” Wilson said.
Meanwhile, only five states (Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, New Jersey and Ohio) provide funding for AI and computer science.
Learning from other states
Computer science education has shifted in focus from coding to AI, the report suggests. However, like most arguments about AI, the technology doesn’t replace computer science—it depends on it.
Some states recognize this by making AI education a priority in their computer science offerings.
In Ohio, AI serves as one of six pillars across the state’s elementary, middle and high school computer science standards. The state’s AI guidance recommends incorporating AI concepts and skills into state technology and computer science standards.
This year, Ohio legislators also included a provision in their biennial budget bill requiring that all school districts adopt an AI policy by July 2026.
Virginia is another good example of a state that prioritizes both AI and computer science education. State leaders have provided funding to support the design and delivery of a comprehensive AI literacy training program for up to 85,000 K12 teachers.
However, the majority of states have not taken steps to ensure that AI is foundational to computer science education. These findings add to previous research from organizations like the Center on Reinventing Public Education, which revealed several inequities in AI guidance nationwide.
For instance, some states are prioritizing AI for operational support, while others are piloting initiatives to improve academic performance and social-emotional well-being.
Districts such as New Jersey’s Newark Public Schools piloted Khanmigo, an AI-powered teaching assistant, in one school serving students in grades 5-8. Last year, the district expanded its use to 14 schools, according to the research.
For an in-depth look at how your state measures up in embedding AI within computer science standards, view the report here.
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