The Iowa Department of Education has announced its intent to award a $43,954.16 grant to the Marion Independent School District through the Computer Science Professional Development Incentive Fund. This partial funding of the district’s proposed budget will support efforts to enhance computer science instruction by providing professional development opportunities for our PK-4 and MHS Computer Science teachers. The grant funds will be used to pay for professional learning for teachers and student materials. This investment aims to expand access to rigorous and engaging computer science education for students across many grade levels.
The grant period began on January 3, 2025, and extends through September 30, 2025. By accepting the grant, Marion Independent commits to advancing the program objectives outlined in the Fiscal Year 2025 Computer Science Professional Development Incentive Fund Grant Application and Implementation Guidance. This funding supports the district’s ongoing commitment to all students owning their future and developing the knowledge and skills to be Future Ready. “The Computer Science Professional Development Incentive Fund helps Iowa schools and teachers build the capacity to provide computer science education for their students,” said Michelle Meier, Department computer science consultant. “These opportunities allow educators to build their skills, knowledge and confidence in delivering high-quality computer science instruction that provides students with lifelong learning skills needed to compete and thrive in a technology-driven workforce.”
This grant will support Marion Independent School District’s mission to foster a community of learners in developing the knowledge and skills to be future ready. Computer science instruction is a critical aspect of future readiness for each of our students. Janelle Brouwer, district Superintendent, stated, “This grant will support our ongoing efforts in equipping teachers to effectively embed computer science instruction across curricular areas and grade levels. We are appreciative of the Department of Education’s support to broaden computer science expertise. Additionally, I would like to thank Technology Director, Peggy Murphy for her leadership in writing the grant as well as in championing learning for staff and for students in the area of computer science.”