Arizona Technology Council Applauds Computer Science Education Funding in State’s FY 2026 Budget

Teacher Training Supports Council’s Ongoing Legislative Priority to Prepare Students for High-Tech Careers

PHOENIX, July 18, 2025 – The Arizona Technology Council today applauded the inclusion of $1 million in funding for computer science teacher professional development in Gov. Katie Hobbs’ FY 2026 budget. This investment directly supports one of the Council’s 2025 legislative priorities: expanding access to computer science education across Arizona’s K–12 public schools.

“Arizona’s economic future depends on a highly skilled workforce, and computer science is a foundational part of that future,” said Steven G. Zylstra, president and CEO of the Council and SciTech Institute. “This funding signals a commitment to ensuring every student has access to high-quality computer science education, starting with teachers who are equipped to guide them. We thank Governor Hobbs and legislative leaders for recognizing the value of this investment.”

The Council, with support from its long-time lobbyist partner, Public Policy Partners, has consistently advocated an increased offering of computer science courses to keep Arizona competitive with surrounding states and global innovation hubs. The newly allocated funding marks a significant step toward providing all Arizona students with the opportunity to take a computer science course before graduation.

The budget funding aligns with the Council’s vision for a phased-in model that ensures students in high school can take standalone computer science courses through their school or online options approved by the Arizona Department of Education while younger students are introduced to computer science principles through general education curricula.

“This inclusion of funding for computer science professional development for teachers builds on a long-term shared vision for Arizona’s future,” said Arizona Representative Walt Blackman. “It’s critical that students in rural and small schools have the same opportunity to access high-quality computer science education as those in larger districts. Investing in teacher training ensures we can deliver that access equitably, preparing all students to thrive in a tech-driven economy and better equipped for the jobs in their future.”

According to the Council, even a single computer science course can potentially raise a student’s future wages by 8% and unlock billions in economic potential. The Council made computer science education a top priority in its state legislative agendas for both 2024 and 2025.

To learn more about the Council’s policy priorities, visit www.aztechcouncil.org/public-policy

About the Arizona Technology Council

The Arizona Technology Council is Arizona’s premier trade association for science and technology companies. Comprised of a diverse professional business community, Council members work towards furthering the advancement of technology in Arizona through leadership, education, legislation and social action. The Council offers numerous events, educational forums and business conferences that bring together leaders, visionaries and community members to make an impact on the technology industry. These interactions contribute to the Council’s culture of growing member businesses and transforming technology in Arizona. To become a member or to learn more about the Arizona Technology Council, please visit www.aztechcouncil.org.