University Academy is one of nearly 90 secondary schools recognized in the first Accelerating Women’s Success and Mastery in Computer Science Honor Roll. This list shows schools where female student enrollment in computer science classes exceeds 50% of hers.

Gender parity in computer science education is a problem, as the statewide average of only 27% of girls enrolled in high school computer science classes. Women are currently underrepresented, making up about 27% of the computer science workforce.

The honors roll was announced by the Texas Advanced Computing Center at the University of Texas at Austin at the 2022 WeTeach_CS Summit and was awarded to less than 1% of the state’s secondary schools.

According to its website, WeTeach_CS provides research-based support to teachers and students in Texas schools through content, pedagogy, equity, accreditation, and community.

“TACC is proud to recognize University Academy Palestine as the first member of AWSM for the CS Honor Roll. Thank you for your leadership and for bringing these opportunities to young women in your community. To do.”

The University Academies offer three main learning pathways: Computer Science, Engineering, and Health Sciences. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs allow students to attend high school classes while earning credit for a degree program at the University of Texas at Tyler.

Ummi Bodede, director of the University Academy, believes that one of the reasons computer science classes are overpopulated with girls is because of the narrow school selection.

“Our entire model is centered around innovation and technology and project-based learning,” says Bodede. “In kindergarten, we start project-based learning, so it becomes second nature.”

Electives such as robotics also encourage girls to learn about STEM and are an option for extracurricular activities for students.

Bodede said the women teaching STEM courses at the University Academy provide good role models for girls and encourage them to pursue STEM careers.

AWSM is funded by the National Science Foundation to increase access and participation in computer courses for young women.

For more information on the University Academy, please visit www.uttua.org.

For more information on WeTeach_CS, please visit www.tacc.utexas.edu/epic/weteachcs.