Mount St. Mary Academy has earned the College Board AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award for expanding young women’s access to AP computer science courses in their communities. Mount is one of only 847 schools recognized nationwide – and one of just 17 in Arkansas – for improving female representation in AP Computer Science Principles (AP CSP) during the 2023-2024 school year.
“Computer science is the source code of our economy and much of the career landscape,” said Trevor Packer, head of the AP Program. “In the seven years since we began the AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award, it’s been heartening to see schools like Mount St. Mary Academy welcome more young women into this vital field. The recipients of this year’s award serve as inspiration and are models for all U.S. high schools.”
“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,” Sara Jones, MSM principal, said of the school’s latest achievement.
Providing young women with access to computer science courses is necessary to ensure gender equity in the industry’s high-paying jobs and to drive innovation, creativity and representation. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for computer and mathematical occupations was $104,200 in 2023. However, women represent just 26.9% of the 6.5 million people employed in the same fields.
That’s why College Board research about AP CSP is encouraging. According to the data, female students who take AP CSP in high school are more than five times as likely to major in computer science in college compared to female students of similar background and academic preparation who didn’t take AP CSP. The study also finds AP CSP serves as a stepping stone to other advanced AP STEM coursework.
Mount St. Mary Academy offers a total of 25 AP courses in seven different subject areas, as well as the rigorous AP Capstone Diploma program. In October 2024, the school was named to the AP School Honor Roll for the second consecutive year, earning Gold distinction. The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs are delivering results for students while broadening access. Schools can earn this recognition annually based on criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness.