Schools

Don't Worry, Be App-y: Students Invited to Enter App Contest

Rep. Robin Kelly launched a contest in which students design a software application, or "app," for mobile, tablet, or computer devices on a platform of their choice. The winning app will be on display in the U.S. Capitol.

Homewood-Flossmoor high school students, put on your thinking caps and grab the electronic device of your choice.

Congresswoman Robin Kelly announced Monday the launch of the first annual congressional science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) academic competition, the House Student App Challenge, for the Second Congressional District. Established by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2013, this competition is a nationwide event that invites high school students from all participating congressional districts to compete by creating and exhibiting their software application, or “app,” for mobile, tablet, or computer devices on a platform of their choice.It is designed to promote innovation and engagement in the STEM education fields.

“This is an extraordinary opportunity for students in my congressional district, and I’m excited about helping to foster their interest in science, technology, engineering and math education,” said Rep. Kelly. “The next decade is estimated to create approximately 8.5 million STEM job opportunities, but it is also estimated that the U.S. will face a shortage of 1 million STEM graduates. The House Student App Challenge seeks to address this challenge by encouraging students to create their own app and pursue an education in STEM fields.”

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The House Student App Challenge is open to all high school students who live in or are eligible to attend public schools located in the Second Congressional District. Students entering the competition must provide a YouTube or VIMEO video demo explaining their app and what they learned through the competition process during the competition submission period between Feb. 1 and April 30, 2014.

More details on submitting a contest entry, the rules of the competition, and helpful programming resources can be found at www.robinkelly.house.gov/student-app-challenge on Rep. Kelly’s website or at StudentAppChallenge.house.gov.

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Winners will be recognized in a congressional district awards ceremony held in the summer of 2014. The winner from Second Congressional District will be featured on StudentAppChallenge.house.gov, and the winning app will also be on display in the U.S. Capitol to honor the winners from across the country. 


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