Children in El Paso will soon have access to foundational skills in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data literacy through a new collaboration among the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), the City of El Paso, and the El Paso Independent School District (EPISD). The initiative, called El Paso Computes, is designed to strengthen computer science education for K-12 students across the region.
The program aims to educate at least 250 current and aspiring teachers each year in computational thinking and data skills. These teachers will then introduce computer science concepts to more than 20,000 K-12 students. Funding for this effort comes from a $3 million grant provided by the City of El Paso.
“Computing is a ‘must-have’ skill in today’s world,” said UTEP President Heather Wilson. “Our partnerships with the school districts and the city make possible things in El Paso that are hard in other places. Together, we will open doors to opportunity for every kid by working with one of the most important people in their lives — their teacher.”
El Paso Mayor Renard U. Johnson commented on the significance of preparing local students for emerging industries: “This initiative is about giving El Paso students the skills to succeed in the careers we’re working to grow right here at home. By building a strong foundation in coding, AI and data literacy, we’re connecting classrooms to the cutting-edge industries we’re growing — from advanced manufacturing and aerospace to defense, biomedical innovation and other technology-driven industries. This program is an investment in our teachers, our students and the future of El Paso’s economy.”
UTEP College of Education Dean Clifton Tanabe, Ph.D., who oversees El Paso Computes, emphasized that computational thinking differs from basic computer usage courses by focusing on problem-solving techniques rooted in computer science. He noted that employment opportunities in computer and information technology fields are expected to increase faster than average through 2033, making these skills increasingly important for many professions.
El Paso Computes includes several components: offering classes for current teachers seeking computer science certifications; integrating computer science training into undergraduate education programs; and organizing city-wide cybersecurity competitions for middle and high school students.
While all regional school districts are expected to participate eventually, EPISD is serving as the pilot district for implementation. Interim Superintendent Martha Aguirre stated: “At El Paso ISD we’re proud to pioneer innovation and opportunity for the families of our region. With this program we are providing our teachers opportunities to enhance their skillset and advance technological literacy for our students; but more importantly, we are also inspiring a spark within the learners of El Paso to push the boundaries of their imagination. With our vocational programs and advancing academics we’re empowering children to build fulfilling lives and help our city flourish.”
The University of Texas at El Paso describes itself as America’s leading Hispanic-serving university with 84% Hispanic enrollment among its 26,000 students.
