Close the Gap

      In two states, there wasn't a single female student who took the AP test in computer science. In 47 other states where girls did sign up for the test, they made up less than a third of the test takers. In a time where girls earn 57% of bachelors degrees that are awarded, there is a severe gap in their representation in the field of computer science.
      One of the greatest ways to get girls involved with technology is early exposure and opportunities to see positive role models in technology based professions. Popular culture and media already do a poor job of showcasing women in technology based roles in television and movies, so it is imperative that educators provide opportunities for their female students. Award winning documentary filmmaker Lesely Chilcott hoped to address this with her newest film "CODEGIRL."
       Starting November 2nd to November 5th, your class can watch the documentary "CODEGIRL" for free via YouTube. The film tells the story of 5,000 girls from 60 different countries as they compete in a coding competition. The Technovation Challenge offers $10,000 in funding for the creators of an app that tries to solve a local problem in their community. In the film, you and your class will get a chance to see girls of all ages and ethnicities learning how to code, interacting with teachers, and collaborating to create something amazing.
       The film also addressees RUSD's unique element of the Socially Engaged Contributor as it relates to Personalized Learning. The girls come from various parts of the world so the local problem varies widely depending on where they are from. However, their passion shines through as the film progresses.
       Click on the video below to watch "CODEGIRL."