April 1, 2023

James Hubert Blake High School Earns AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award

MCPS Communications Posted On February 1, 2023
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For the second year, James Hubert Blake High School has earned the College Board Advanced Placement (AP) Computer Science Female Diversity Award for achieving high female representation in AP Computer Science A. Schools honored with the AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award have expanded girls’ access in AP computer science courses. 

More than 1,100 institutions achieved either 50% or higher female representation in one of the two AP computer science courses or a percentage of the female computer science exam takers meeting or exceeding that of the school’s female population during the 2021-2022 school year. In 2022, Blake was one of 209 recognized in AP Computer Science A.

“We’re thrilled to congratulate our female AP computer science students and their teachers on this step toward gender parity in computer science education,” said Bob Sinclair, principal of Blake High School. “We’re honored that our school earned this distinction and look forward to seeing these young women and others pursue and achieve success in computer science education and careers.”

“Computer science is the source code of our economy and so much of our daily lives,” said Trevor Packer, College Board Head of the AP Program. “In the five years since we began the AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award, it’s been heartening to see schools like Blake High School welcome so many more young women into this vital field.”

AP Computer Science A (CSA) students learn to design and implement computer programs that solve problems relevant in today’s society. AP Computer Science A, which first debuted in 1988, continues to grow nationally. Female participation has increased 39% since 2017. Overall, AP computer science course participation has increased 103% since 2017, broadening STEM career opportunities for more students. 

Providing female students with access to computer science courses is critical to ensuring gender parity in the industry’s high-paying jobs and to drive innovation, creativity and representation. In May 2021, the median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $97,430. However, women represent just 24% of the 5 million people in computing occupations.