Andrew Putman, a junior at Niceville High School, has been named the winner of the 2023 Congressional App Challenge in Florida’s First District.

• U.S. Congressman Matt Gaetz announced Putman’s victory on November 18, 2023, at Northwest Florida State College.

Putman’s winning app, Assets4Kids, aims to alleviate child poverty. He was inspired to create the app after witnessing child poverty firsthand during a mission trip to the Dominican Republic.

As part of his recognition, Putman and his teacher, Carrie Foxhall, were invited by Congressman Gaetz to the Capital Building in Washington, D.C. Accompanied by his parents and Foxhall, Putman showcased Assets4Kids at the House of Code Reception on April 12.

“This was a great experience for me, and I’m really thankful I was able to go on this trip. I look forward to participating in the app challenge again next year,” Putman said, reflecting on his experience.

The Congressional App Challenge seeks to inspire, include, and innovate efforts around STEM, coding, and computer science education. Notably, this marks the fourth time a Niceville High School student has won the challenge in their district.

Superintendent Marcus Chambers expressed pride in Putman’s achievement, stating, “Our school district is fortunate to have talented students who continue to impress us. We are incredibly proud of Andrew’s outstanding achievement in developing a meaningful app to assist impoverished children. We are equally proud of his representation of our district and Career Technical Education (CTE) at a national level.”