ArtCenter and Pasadena Unified School District Celebrate First Successful Year of ‘The App Academy’ Initiative

The App Academy at Pasadena High School has completed its first successful year in collaboration with the ArtCenter College of Design, providing a pathway for future coders and programmers.

Led by Charlene Joy Dela Cruz, a 2021 ArtCenter graduate, the academy instructs students in UI/UX design skills as part of its elective track. The four-year curriculum allows students to progressively build upon their knowledge to create complex and impactful projects.

In the past year, students have designed and developed a range of projects, including personal websites showcasing original photography, socially aware 2D video games and even a prom dress fitted with LED lights programmed to flash intricate patterns.

With a broad-based approach, the academy’s curriculum emphasizes the role of computer science in various sectors beyond technology, such as business, medicine, engineering, politics and art. This approach cultivates creativity and critical thinking skills while imparting valuable programming competencies.

A total of 204 students have enrolled in the program in its inaugural year. Among these, 40 students intend to pursue computer science in college, and an additional 25 are planning to study other STEM fields. 

This trend aligns with broader employment patterns, with 71% of new STEM jobs being in computing.

The academy’s successful first year was made possible by the support of the Pasadena Educational Foundation and numerous benefactors. These include the First Congregational Church of Pasadena, The Kenneth T. and Eileen L. Norris Foundation, American Honda Motor Company, Inc., and The Rowe and Gayle Giesen Trust.