Empowering Detroit’s Next Generation Through K12 Computer Science

Our Mission

CSforDetroit is a multi-year initiative, developed by a group of diverse stakeholders across the city of Detroit and beyond. Powered by Kapor Foundation, Song Foundation, and other likeminded organizations, this initiative aims to equip K-12 students with a culturally responsive computer science education for tech-driven futures that lead to success in college, career, and life.

Across the state of Michigan, there is a monthly average of 21,062 open computing jobs, but only 2,639 CS graduates are prepared to fill these positions with just 54% of Michigan high schools currently offering computer science courses.

With the introduction of statewide legislation in 2025 requiring all high schools to offer computer science classes throughout Michigan, CSforDetroit amplifies investments and community-driven activities designed to help expand access to year-round computer science learning opportunities for Detroit students, provide opportunities for professional learning for teachers and administrators, and engage the broader Detroit community in building a passion for the development of a diverse and robust pool of talent to design Detroit’s future.

Through CSforDetroit, We Aim To:

Expand access to year-round computer science learning opportunities for Detroit students, invest in programs to ensure rigorous, culturally responsive, and community-driven opportunities for K-12 students, empower Detroit’s students to emerge as ethical leaders in tech to build equitable computer systems that reduce discrimination and harm, provide opportunities for professional learning for teachers and administrators, and engage the broader Detroit community in developing a diverse and robust pool of talent to design Detroit’s future.

TEACHERS

We are creating a diverse and inclusive network of CS teachers in Detroit, by both building a pipeline of new teachers and supporting professional learning for current teachers.

STUDENTS

We are expanding student participation, engagement, and success in computer science by elevating student voice and providing CS opportunities year-round.

SCHOOL / DISTRICT

We are working with district leaders in Detroit to expand equitable and sustainable CS pathways.

COMMUNITY

We are building connectivity, communication, and strategic alignment among stakeholders serving the broader Detroit community to impact tech equity.

POLICY MAKERS

We are collaborating with city and state policymakers to to advance equity and sustainability in computer science education in Detroit.

FROM THE COMMUNITY

“The CSforDetroit initiative has long been overdue to bring equitable computing education to young people in Detroit”

Dr. Aman Yadav
Lappan-Phillips Professor of Computing Education in the College of Education and College of Natural Science at Michigan State University

“This new partnership will further empower our community to become creators, leaders and innovators in an ever-evolving tech-driven world and shape Detroit’s technological landscape for years to come.”

Leenet Campbell-Williams
Assistant Superintendent at Detroit Public Schools Community District

“This work aims to create an innovative, accessible and inclusive future where Detroit becomes a leading technology hub that can challenge and dismantle harmful technologies”

Allison Scott
CEO of the Kapor Foundation

“K-12 computer science education not only empowers students with essential digital skills but also nurtures innovation, problem-solving, and paves the way for a brighter future for all while strengthening our Michigan communities.”

Cheryl Wilson
Computer Science Consultant Educational Technology Unit Office of Systems, Evaluation, and Technology (OSET) Michigan Department of Education

“The Office of Digital Equity & Inclusion is looking forward to incorporating the CS for Detroit K12 program in our 3-to-5-year digital equity strategic plan, ensuring over the next 3-to-5 years the City of Detroit IT Workforce pipeline will far exceed state and national standards.”

Christine Burkette
Director of Digital Equity & Inclusion, The City of Detroit, Department of Innovation and Technology