Rep. Jamie Raskin (MD-08) announced the winners of his district’s 2024 Congressional App Challenge.
Wheaton High School sophomore Ayden Yeung and Montgomery Blair High School sophomore Julian Givens won for their “Better Buildings” app that helps students report problems with school facilities.
“Ayden and Julian didn’t just create a stellar app, they solved a problem, better connecting campus communities to their administrative leaders,” Raskin stated. “I’m grateful to them and to all the students who participated in the 2024 Congressional App Challenge for their tenacious creativity and vision. MD-08 proudly boasts numerous young tech talents who are already making a mark in our community and in our world. Congratulations, Julian and Ayden, you make our future bright.”
Students can report issues like leaky faucets, broken stall doors, or missing hygiene items. Those who submit a report on the app are prompted to pick an issue area and can edit their reports in real time. Students can upvote and engage with other reports, and administrators can track repairs and communicate with students.
“Better Buildings is an app designed to let students report problems they find in their school buildings directly to administrators,” Givens said in the pair’s entry video. “It improves communication and helps speed up repairs where they’re needed most.”
“The app is targeted at students and school staff, making it easier for everyone to identify and resolve problems quickly, ensuring safer, healthier, and better maintained schools,” Yeung said.
Raskin announced the winners during Computer Science Education Week. In last year’s challenge, Raskin announced Sreeyan Nampally and Cody Gao of Wootton High School as the winners for “SignMe,” an app to help deaf and mute people communicate.
The Congressional App Challenge started in 2014. Students in participating districts can compete by creating an original app. Winning apps are featured on the U.S. House of Representatives’ website, the Congressional App Challenge website, and are displayed in an exhibit at the U.S. Capitol Building.
