The popularity of AP Computer Science Principles is on the rise amongst all students, including female students. In 2022, the number of students who took the AP CSP Exam (134,651) had tripled from the number of exam takers in the course’s first year in 2017. 44,811 women accounted for the AP CSP Exam test takers in 2022, which was also three times the number of females who tested in 2017. Because of OVHS’s and HBHS’s dedication to their computer science programs and commitment to their students, OVHS and HBHS were two of 832 recognized in the category of AP Computer Science Principles (CSP).

Owen Crosby, Ed.D., Huntington Beach Union High School District’s Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, states, “The growth of the AP Computer Science Principles programs at Huntington Beach and Ocean View is a direct result of a strong belief that all students can achieve and excel. It is great to see so many young women across our district challenging themselves at the highest levels and succeeding. HBUHSD is proud to have teachers and staff across the district who encourage all students to pursue their interests and passions.”

While female students currently remain underrepresented in high school computer science classrooms, schools that provide the opportunity and encourage female students to enroll in computer science courses are critical in growing the confidence of women who enter male dominated fields, while also giving them the tools needed to succeed and drive innovation, creativity, and representation in computer science fields. According to College Board research about AP CSP, 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 did not take CSP.