(NEW BRITAIN, CT) - Today, Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz, state Department of Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker and New Britain Public Schools launched the 2023 Lt. Governor’s Computing Challenge.
The Lt. Governor's Computing Challenge is a statewide coding competition for Connecticut students. Since its inception, the Challenge has engaged over 1,600 students and STEM educators statewide to support and foster the future of computer science within our State.
This year, students will design a computing application or website while keeping in mind the theme of Coding for Good. The theme will allow students to create applications designed to spread positive messages, tackle important issues or promote healthy habits. The possibilities are endless.
“One of the highest honor’s I have had since taking office in 2019 is serving as Chair on the Governor’s Council of Women and Girls. The Council has a major focus on exposing students, particularly women, to STEM related fields and careers where women are typically underrepresented. Allowing students to explore an interest in computer science early in their academic careers allows them to think about a future degree or career in computer science and STEM,” said Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz. “With the launch of our fourth annual Lt. Governor’s Computing Challenge, Connecticut students will have an amazing and interactive opportunity to learn more about computer science and coding and see how their ideas could impact our collective greater good.”
Connecticut students are encouraged to create applications designed to inspire health and wellness for all. The challenge includes three options for submission: concept challenge, prototype challenge and development challenge. Students can work individually or as a team to submit to one challenge.
“Computer science enables students to collaborate, answer complex questions, and develop solutions for real-world problems. Learning these skills ensures students are able to participate in the high-tech economy of tomorrow,” said Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker. “The Lt. Governor’s Computing Challenge provides an opportunity to inspire all students in grade 3-12 to participate in computer science regardless of their experience level, zip code, or access to resources.”
Eligibility to enter the challenge is open to students grades 3 through 12 with three different options of participation, allowing the ability for students with no computer science experience to those that are well versed in the subject the opportunity to participate.
“We're honored to host the Lieutenant Governor for this important kickoff. New Britain's schools are on the rise and we're thankful for the support and partnership with our community and state agencies,” said New Britain School Superintendent Dr. Tony Gasper. “The Computing Challenge is a great opportunity for students to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to a real-life situation and see themselves as creators of technology. Whether students are presenting an idea for an app, a prototype, or a fully developed app, this experience is truly critical thinking and problem solving brought to life.”
The Lt. Governor’s office and State Department of Education are currently looking for business and industry partners to assist with funding the challenge. If you are interested in assisting with the challenge, please contact Jennifer Michalek at jennifer.michalek@ct.gov.
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For Immediate Release: Monday, December 5, 2022
Contact: Chelsea Neelon