is this still a big deal today?
unlike a few years ago, computers are easily accessible today, information and lessons on the internet are waiting to be discovered... I simply don't think age matters at all in this field..
I would say that this facet of computers is becoming less accessible as time goes on. App stores, code signing, OS lock-downs and all sorts of "security" measures just make it harder for someone to pick up programming.
That's only true if you want to learn programming on a locked-down platform like an iPad or a smartphone. You can still write code for Windows or Linux that anyone can download from your web site or Github without jumping through any hoops. And despite all the prognostications about the death of the general-purpose computer being imminent, there are still infinitely many useful programs that you can develop for a desktop/laptop machine.
The inflation-adjusted equivalent of $200 in 1980 (that the original comment was referring to) would be over $500 today, which is enough to buy a new laptop. For $200 you can still pick up a fairly reasonable used machine - or if you're a kid, you might be able to get your parent's old machine for free. Not to mention that today, computers are available for free in many schools.
Inflation arguments don't really work for a lot of people's income. Check people's actual salaries versus inflation and why companies find it so important to get consumer electronics below the $200 barrier.
Computers in schools aren't used for programming anymore. It went the way of vocational programs since teachers are not hired to teach it specifically and a generalist cannot. Computers are web browsers, readers, and run specific education software.
There is a need for that Sinclair / Commodore price and it has been replaced with iPods and smart phones.
