Inspire high school students to pursue computer science and STEM disciplines by encouraging them to compete in the 2015 Congressional App Challenge. U.S. students nationwide—both individuals and teams—will create and exhibit apps for mobile, tablet, or computer devices on a platform of their choice. No previous computer science coursework is required.
From November 9, 2015 through January 21, 2016 (3pm EST), students from grades 9-12 in participating Congressional districts can submit their apps to be judged by local computer science professionals and Congressional representatives. Winners will be honored by their member of Congress, and winning apps will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C.
Members of the U.S. House of Representatives launched the Congressional App Challenge in 2014 to engage U.S. high school students in coding and computer science. "The CAC is a Congressional effort to maintain American competitiveness, by proactively investing in our youth and encouraging them to pursue these crucial STEM-based skills," according to the Internet Education Foundation, official outside sponsor of the Challenge.
Winning apps in 2014 included Pocket Einstein, which teaches students math and science; State Puzzles, which teaches about states and their capital cities; and Tasky, which helps mobile users organize and remember various tasks and activities.