Fort Bend Christian Academy Earns AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award

Recognized Nationally for Expanding Access to Young Women in Computer Science

Fort Bend Christian Academy has earned the College Board AP® Computer Science Female Diversity Award for the 2023–2024 academic year. This national recognition honors schools that have achieved high female representation in AP Computer Science Principles (CSP), demonstrating a strong commitment to expanding access and closing the gender gap in STEM education.

FBCA is one of only 847 schools nationwide to receive this distinction for AP CSP. During the 2023–24 school year, 1,153 institutions earned the award for either AP Computer Science Principles (CSP), AP Computer Science A (CSA), or both.

“We are proud of our students and our program,” said Gloria Mathew, FBCA’s Computer Science teacher. “This recognition reflects the passion and commitment of our young women who are exploring future careers in technology. I’m honored to guide them and excited to see how they’ll lead in the digital space.”

To qualify, schools must either reach 50% or higher female representation in one of the AP computer science courses or exceed the percentage of female exam takers relative to the school’s overall female enrollment.

“Offering equitable access to rigorous programs like AP Computer Science Principles is a priority at FBCA,” said Nathan Barber, Head of Upper School. “This award celebrates the success of our students and the dedication of our faculty to preparing all learners for future-ready careers.”

The importance of this milestone is clear when viewed against national trends. While computer and mathematical occupations had a median annual wage of $104,200 in 2023, women make up just 26.9% of the 6.5 million people employed in the field. Studies show that 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 peers who do not take the course.

AP Computer Science Principles has grown rapidly since its launch in 2016–17. In 2024:

• 175,261 students took the AP CSP exam — nearly four times more than in its first year.

• 60,259 female students participated — about 4.5 times more than in 2017.

College Board’s research also shows that AP CSP often serves as a gateway to further AP STEM coursework and advanced studies in computer science.

Fort Bend Christian Academy remains committed to empowering all students—especially young women—to thrive in emerging fields and become leaders who innovate, create, and inspire.