Amazon Is Bringing Computer Science Classes To 130 High Schools

Amazon will help the next generation learn vital coding skills under a new program that will involve bringing computer science classes to 130 high schools in the New York City area. The classes will be rolled out over the next year leading into 2020, and they'll cover both introductory and Advanced Placement courses. Notably, the classes will be offered in more than 30 high schools in Queens, the destination for Amazon's upcoming new headquarters.

Demand for computer science skills will continue to grow in coming years, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Companies have increasingly rolled out educational programs and pilots designed to help kids and teenagers learn the skills they need to meet this demand, starting from simple games for young kids all the way up to advanced classes for high school students.

For its part, Amazon's Future Engineer program will support the new upcoming high school courses, which will provide computer science education to thousands of students who don't currently have access to it, according to Amazon.

Amazon's "Intro to Computer Science" and "AP Computer Science" courses will be offered by Edhesive, a NY-based curriculum provider. The company will fund a variety of materials related to the courses, including tutorials, professional development for teachers, and preparatory lessons.

Both teachers and students will have access to live online support, and there's mention of a digital curriculum. Each student participating in these courses will likewise get a free AWS Educate membership. Amazon has provided a full list of the high schools getting these new courses here.