Dear Neighbor, 

As we continue our ongoing efforts to stay safe during this pandemic and work to keep ourselves and others healthy, I’d like to announce the launch of this year’s 2020 Congressional App Challenge. 

The purpose of this challenge is to encourage both middle school and high school students to learn how to code, and present an opportunity to enhance their skills and interests in computer science and STEM. The 2020 Congressional App Challenge runs from June 1st 2020 to October 19th 2020. With the uncertainty of summer camps and programs running this year, this is a great opportunity to keep students engaged and interested.

This app can be developed on any platform and must be functioning when submitted. Students have free range on the type of app they can create. It can be something they are passionate about, enjoy doing, or even want to improve. The opportunities to create are endless. Consider developing an app that could potentially solve problems in our own community, state, the nation, or even the world. 

Below are further details about how to participate. If you have any questions or concerns or if you need assistance, please do not hesitate to call either of my offices at (703) 256-3071 or (571) 408-4407. 

How to enter and rules: 

• Students can enter the 2020 Congressional App Challenge now by clicking: Register for 2020 CAC
• Students may register as individuals or as teams of up to four. No more than four students are allowed to form a team.
• Students may compete in the district they reside in or the district they attend school in.
• To be eligible to participate in the Congressional App Challenge, you must be a middle or high school student at the time of app submission.
• STUDENTS CAN USE ANY PROGRAMMING LANGUAGE (example: C, C++, JavaScript, Python, Ruby, “block code,” etc.) and ANY PLATFORM (PC, web, tablet, robot, mobile, etc.). There are NO LIMITS on application theme or topic!
• Find the complete rule book by clicking: 2020 CAC Rulebook 
• The Congressional App Challenge also has created a Code at Home feature that can assist participants in their efforts. 

The Congressional App Challenge will accept submissions until Monday, October 19th, 2020 at 5pm. Winners from the district will be announced in December of 2020.

If you have any questions or concerns, or if you need assistance, please do not hesitate to call one of my offices at (703) 256-3071 or (571) 408-4407.

Sincerely,