Equity in Education: The impact of NC House Bill 8 on digital inclusion and CTE programs

by Talitha Batts,M.ED & Rasheda Kelley, MPA

North Carolina House Bill 8, titled “Computer Science Graduation Requirement,” aims to make computer science education mandatory for high school graduation. However, this bill raises concerns about digital equity and adequate teacher staffing. The digital divide in North Carolina disproportionately affects rural, low-income, and Black and Hispanic households. During the COVID-19 pandemic, 30% of students lacked a reliable internet connection for remote learning, and 23% did not have adequate devices. This policy brief examines the challenges of NC House Bill 8, digital equity, and inadequate technology education instructor staffing in North Carolina high schools.