Imagine a world where kids leave school without ever learning how to navigate the digital landscape shaping their future. Picture students entering the workforce lacking the basic skills employers desperately seek. Right now, most young people miss out on understanding the tools revolutionizing every industry. This isn’t just a gap in education—it’s a missed chance to prepare an entire generation for what lies ahead.
Over 250 influential figures from the tech world are joining forces to change that. They want computer science and artificial intelligence to become core subjects in every U.S. school. Spearheaded by Code.org and CSforALL, the Unlock8 movement pushes for these skills to be taught from kindergarten through twelfth grade. Their argument is simple: in a world dominated by technology, these subjects are no longer optional.
Studies back their stance. One high school computer science class can increase a graduate’s early earnings by 8%, no matter their career path. The World Economic Forum agrees, naming AI and data skills as the top abilities employers will prioritize in the coming years. Cameron Wilson from Code.org explains that these subjects prepare young people for an evolving job market. He stresses that tech leaders aren’t asking for optional courses—they want requirements.
Progress has been made. Every state has expanded computer science programs, with 39 now funding them directly, up from nine in 2017. Yet only twelve states mandate these classes for graduation. Last year, barely 6% of students took a computer science course. The campaign seeks to dramatically increase that figure.
One ad challenges viewers:
How can students shape tomorrow if schools treat these subjects as extras?
It links to a letter signed by major industry names, including Microsoft’s Satya Nadella and Airbnb’s Brian Chesky.
Code.org previously worked to make computer science count toward existing graduation standards. Their new goal is universal enrollment, driven by AI’s rapid spread and the growing need for tech-savvy workers. According to CSforALL’s Katy Knight, mandatory nationwide education in these fields would boost achievement, reduce pay disparities, and ready young adults for an AI-driven world.