U.S. Representative Randy Hultgren (IL-14) has announced that the annual Congressional App Challenge (CAC), previously known as the Congressional Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Academic Competition, for high school students in the 14th Congressional District has launched and will be accepting submissions through November 2, 2016. The competition is designed to engage students’ creativity and encourage their participation in STEM education fields, allowing students to compete by creating and exhibiting their software application, or “app,” for mobile, tablet or computer devices on a platform of their choice.
Rep. Hultgren is co-chair of the STEM Education Caucus in the U.S. House and recently launched the STEM Scholars program to encourage high school students to become ambassadors for the possibilities provided by STEM education in their communities.
“Our nation has a strong track record of innovative and technological achievement. STEM education is critical for our nation to continue to lead, and for our students to pursue and thrive in the careers of tomorrow,” said Rep. Hultgren. “Learning computer code alongside young students, I have seen the strong promise of our next generation of pioneers and innovators. This competition is a great way students can showcase their ideas and technical know-how, and even attract the interest of regional innovators and start-ups. I am excited to see what inventive apps students in the 14th District create to solve everyday problems and enhance our lives.”
Last year, the nationwide competition received submissions from students in 84 congressional districts. Jake Cirino of Oswego High School was selected as 14th District winner by area judges from the computer science and technology fields for his app, “The Student Planner Project.”
The 2016 Congressional App Challenge submission period runs through November 2, 2016. 14th District winners will be selected by a panel of local judges and recognized by Congressman Hultgren. The apps will be featured on a display in the U.S. Capitol building.
Students wishing to submit applications for the CAC can submit their application online. Additional information can be found at www.congressionalappchallenge.us, and on Rep. Hultgren’s website at http://hultgren.house.gov/serving-you/stem-competition, or by phone at 202-225-2976.
