Arkansas Computer Science Initiative (DESE)
Eligibility
All Arkansas K-12 public schools and districts. The CS Initiative supports the statewide CS education mandate — every AR school with a CS program is a potential participant.
Program Goals
The AR DESE CS Initiative implements the 2015 Computer Science Education Act by providing professional development, curriculum, and district support. Programs that align to the CS standards and strengthen teacher capacity are the core focus.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
Programs and opportunities announced through the AR CS Initiative website. Check arkansascsinitiative.com for current teacher PD opportunities, district grants, and program support.
Cycle Notes
Annual cycle with various programs throughout the year. Monitor arkansascsinitiative.com for current opportunities.
Grant Award Amount
Varies by program. Teacher PD stipends, curriculum resources, and district implementation support are the primary forms of support. Check the current program for award types.
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- Coding for Good Kit — an all-in-one coding, robotics, and AI literacy toolkit using micro:bit for real-world challenges
- CodeCTRL controller with display for micro:bit — a handheld game-style controller for interactive games and physical computing
- Forward Education Learning Platform — curriculum-aligned STEM lessons, coding tutorials, career profiles, and PD courses
- CHARGE Battery Pack for micro:bit — a compact rechargeable power solution that makes micro:bit projects fully portable
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every Arkansas school qualify?
Yes — the CS Initiative supports all Arkansas K-12 schools implementing the CS mandate.
What does the CS Initiative provide?
Teacher professional development, curriculum resources, and district implementation support for CS education.
Is there a cash grant available?
The primary support is PD and curriculum resources. Some programs may include equipment or stipends. Check arkansascsinitiative.com for current offerings.
How does this connect to the 2015 CS Education Act?
The CS Initiative implements the Act by ensuring teachers have PD and resources to teach CS in every AR school.
How can Forward Education help?
Our Coding for Good Kit and Learning Platform are directly aligned to AR CS standards. We can provide curriculum documentation for CS Initiative applications and teacher PD programs.
Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals.
- Curriculum alignment documents — Arkansas standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing
- Letters of support
- Project ideas and scope-and-sequence
