H. Res. 558 

In the House of Representatives, U. S., 

October 20, 2009. 

Whereas computing technology has become an integral part 

of culture and is transforming how people interact with 

each other and the world around them; 

Whereas computer science is transforming industry, creating 

new fields of commerce, driving innovation in all fields of 

science, and bolstering productivity in established economic sectors; 

Whereas the field of computer science underpins the information technology sector of our economy, which is a significant contributor to United States economic output; 

Whereas the information technology sector is uniquely positioned to help with economic recovery through the research and development of new innovations; 

Whereas National Computer Science Education Week can inform students, teachers, parents, and the general public 

about the crucial role that computer science plays in 

transforming our society and how computer science enables innovation in all science, technology, engineering, 

and mathematics disciplines and creates economic opportunities; 

Whereas providing students the chance to participate in highquality computer science activities, including through 
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•HRES 558 EH 

science scholarships, exposes them to the rich opportunities the field offers and provides critical thinking skills 

that will serve them throughout their lives; 

Whereas all students deserve a thorough preparation in 

science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education, including access to the qualified teachers, technology, and age-appropriate curriculum needed to learn 

computer science at the elementary and secondary levels 

of education; 

Whereas these subjects provide the critical foundation to 

master the skills demanded by our 21st century workforce; 

Whereas computer science education has challenges to address, including distinguishing computer science from 

technology literacy and providing adequate professional 

development for computer science teachers; 

Whereas the field of computer science has significant equity 

barriers to address, including attracting more participation by females and underrepresented minorities to all 

levels and branches; 

Whereas Grace Murray Hopper, one of the first females in 

the field of computer science, engineered new programming languages and pioneered standards for computer 

systems which laid the foundation for many advancements in computer science; and 

Whereas the week of December 7, in honor of Grace Hopper’s birthday, is designated as ‘‘National Computer 

Science Education Week’’: Now, therefore, be it 

Resolved, That the House of Representatives— 
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•HRES 558 EH 

(1) supports the designation of National Computer 

Science Education Week; 

(2) encourages schools, teachers, researchers, universities, and policymakers to identify mechanisms for 

teachers to receive cutting edge professional development 

to provide sustainable learning experiences in computer 

science at all educational levels and encourage students 

to be exposed to computer science concepts; 

(3) encourages opportunities, including through existing programs, for females and underrepresented minorities in computer science; and 

(4) supports research in computer science to address what would motivate increased participation in this 

field. 

Attest: 

Clerk.