CAC Top Apps presented by theCoderSchool -

The Congressional App Challenge (CAC), in partnership with theCoderSchool, a national leader in teaching kids to code, is proud to announce the launch of CAC Top Apps presented by theCoderSchool, a new annual recognition program celebrating the most technically impressive and impactful student apps from across the nation.

What is CAC Top Apps?
Each year, Members of Congress host the Congressional App Challenge in their districts, recognizing one winning app per district. These winners are celebrated at the #HouseOfCode event in Washington, D.C.

Through CAC Top Apps presented by theCoderSchool, select district-winning projects will be further recognized for their extraordinary technical achievement, creativity, and potential for real-world impact. CAC Top Apps is a national showcase and review of the most exceptional student-built apps, highlighting innovations that exemplify the spirit and skill of the next generation of American technologists.

Why CAC Top Apps?
CAC Top Apps is designed to raise the bar by fostering greater technical sophistication, creativity, and real-world impact in student submissions. By adding this advanced level of review and recognition, the Congressional App Challenge and theCoderSchool aim to inspire students to push their skills further and dream bigger.

“We’re thrilled to partner with the Congressional App Challenge team to create and run CAC Top Apps,” said Hansel Lynn, CEO of theCoderSchool. “Coding isn’t just about learning a language—it’s about learning how to think. This contest celebrates kids’ creativity, teamwork, and passion for technology while giving them an even more prestigious goal to strive for on the national stage.”

CAC Top Apps presented by theCoderSchool — FAQ

Who is eligible for CAC Top Apps?
How are apps selected?
Each year, a panel of reviewers from theCoderSchool and the Congressional App Challenge team conducts a deeper review of district-winning submissions. Apps are highlighted based on:

Technical sophistication – code quality, architecture, and innovation

Creativity – originality and design approach

Community impact – the app’s ability to solve real problems or serve others

Selections are made from the original submitted materials, including the demo video and code base.
Does the use of AI affect eligibility?

AI tools are welcome, but transparency and understanding are key. Students must clearly identify any AI-generated code and demonstrate comprehension of how their app functions. Reviewers value thoughtful, human-driven creativity and the meaningful use of AI as a supportive tool, not a substitute for learning.
What does recognition as a CAC Top App mean?
CAC Top Apps are considered the year’s most exceptional student creations.

Selected students receive:

National recognition on CAC and theCoderSchool platforms

A physical trophy or certificate, presented at #HouseOfCode in Washington, D.C.

Opportunities to be featured in showcase events and communications celebrating the year’s top innovators
How many projects are highlighted each year?

Each year’s class of CAC Top Apps includes a small group of standout projects chosen for excellence in areas such as technical achievement, creativity, and impact. Some may receive special distinctions (e.g., Most Creative, Most Impactful, or Most Technically Complex).
When are honorees announced?
Who oversees CAC Top Apps?

About theCoderSchool
Founded in 2014 by Hansel Lynn, theCoderSchool is a Silicon Valley–based education franchise that teaches computer programming to children ages 7 to 18. With over 70 schools nationwide and more than 1,000 Code Coaches, theCoderSchool continues to expand into major U.S. markets.
Learn more at www.thecoderschool.com.

About the Congressional App Challenge
Launched in 2015 by leaders in the U.S. House of Representatives and the Internet Education Foundation, the Congressional App Challenge is a nationwide competition that inspires middle and high school students to pursue careers in technology. Through House Resolution 77, Members of Congress invite students to create and submit original apps. Each year, one winning app per district is announced and displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building for one year.
The Challenge is a nonpartisan initiative that encourages participation from students of all backgrounds while helping Members of Congress showcase local talent and emphasize the importance of computer science education.