Dr. Brenda Mack, Principal of Ridge View High School, commends the dedication of educators, led by Dr. Nevermind Chigoba and the entire Career and Technology Education staff, in preparing female students for future job opportunities. She emphasizes the school’s commitment to diversifying computer science education and empowering students to excel in lucrative and rewarding careers.
During the 2022-23 school year, Ridge View demonstrated notable progress, with 28 out of 49 students taking the AP exam for the course being female. This recognition from the College Board marks the fourth time, following acknowledgments in 2019, 2021, 2022, and now 2023, showcasing the school’s consistency in closing the gender equity gap in computer science education since the launch of AP Computer Science Principles in the 2016-2017 academic year.
The College Board highlights the importance of gender diversity in computer science, noting that women represent only 24 percent of the workforce in computing occupations. Ridge View’s commitment to encouraging female students to pursue AP CSP is a proactive step toward bridging this gap. The College Board further reveals that female students who engage in AP CSP in high school are over five times more likely to major in computer science in college compared to their counterparts who did not take the course.
As Ridge View High School continues to inspire and empower its students, this recognition serves as a testament to the school’s dedication to fostering inclusivity and diversity in the field of computer science. The skills and opportunities provided through AP CSP contribute to shaping a future where female students can thrive in the dynamic and evolving landscape of technology.
