STEM Presentations April 12, 2007

Transportation

Elementary

Middle

High

STEM Presentation Feb. 5, 2007

Responses to Parent Questions
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Students in Grades 7-12:
Win a trip to Space Camp!

“There is a growing concern that the United States is not preparing a sufficient number of students, teachers, and practitioners in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

When compared to other nations, the math and science achievement of U.S. pupils and the rate of STEM attainment appear inconsistent with a nation considered the world leader in scientific innovation.”

- Congressional Research Service 

Report for Congress, May 2006

To best serve our students and stakeholders, St. Mary’s County Public School System has developed a rigorous and unique program of study emphasizing the core areas of mathematics and science with an infusion of technology and engineering. This STEM program will be offered at three schools: Lexington Park Elementary, Spring Ridge Middle, and Great Mills High School. The proximity of these three schools to the Naval Air Station, Patuxent River and the Technology Corridor make them ideal sites.

The Lexington Park Elementary School STEM Academy will serve fourth and fifth grade students with teamed teachers offering comprehensive coursework focused upon the interrelation of science, engineering, and mathematics. The fifth grade year will conclude with students participating in Star Base Atlantis offered at the Patuxent Naval Air Station through the Department of Defense.

The Spring Ridge Middle School STEM Academy will offer tailored mathematics, science, and technology courses taught by interdisciplinary teacher teams. The courses will be designed to deepen understanding of STEM learning by exposing students to the most current trends in technology, engineering, and science.

The Great Mills High School STEM Academy will offer unique courses in English, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, giving students extraordinary knowledge and skills, as well as career exploration in numerous science and engineering pathways. The curricula will include dedicated research classes founded upon the application of mastered material integrated contemporary technologies and extensive problem-solving experience. Advanced Placement courses in all content areas will be incorporated as well.

Driving Principles

Rigor

• Extensive laboratory experiences using the most contemporary technologies for scientific inquiry, mathematical calculation, and engineering design and problem-solving techniques

• Exposure to numerous and diverse technological applications including, but not limited to, computers, simulation software, digital imaging, data acquisition, sensors, diagnostic, and other peripheral devices

Relevance

• Curricula that integrates analytical reading and technical writing skill development

• Intensive communication assignments designed to refine verbal and visual communication abilities

• Participation in nationally recognized academic and engineering competitions

Understanding

• An emphasis on critical and creative thinking in all academic coursework

• Interdisciplinary approach to curriculum stressing complete understanding of systems

Application

• Culminating projects done cooperatively and individually to demonstrate and apply learned concepts

• Highly focused academic and career counseling to help facilitate transition to higher education and careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

• An environment of intellectual and technical exchange with local business and industry mentors to promote awareness and interest in diverse careers in science and engineering