What is STEM?
STEM was first coined by the National Science Foundation in the early 1990’s and is applied to any policy, event, curriculum, or education program dealing with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. STEM curriculums strive to prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century.
Why should I consider STEM for my teen?
STEM classes are designed to challenge students who have an interest in STEM fields and are highly motivated to learn. Students will be challenged academically with the goal of giving them the greatest opportunity for success in postsecondary STEM programs and STEM careers. In addition, students in STEM classes will be encouraged to enroll in other rigorous course offerings, including Physics, Calculus, and AP courses.
How does STEM fit in the academic day?
STEM is an elective. Students who take STEM engineering classes still have to take the math and science classes required to graduate.
ENGINEERING
See course descriptions under the "STEM" heading here
I don’t know if I want to be an engineer. Should I still take STEM?
Students benefit from STEM courses even if they do not pursue engineering. The courses give a good exposure to different engineering fields, so they are useful in helping a student decide if that is the direction they want to go, but they also teach valuable skills such as problem solving, team-work, and professional skills.