Growing a Specialized STEM Program Exciting. Engaging. Equipping. 2017-2018 Ninth Grade Cohort

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WHAT is STEM Education? STEM is a curriculum based on the idea of educating students in four specific disciplines — science, technology, engineering and mathematics — in an interdisciplinary and applied approach. STEM integrates them into a cohesive learning paradigm based on real-world applications.

STEM Academy Journey August 4, 2016 October, 2012 Brainstormed the STEM Academy concept Focus: How to produce more STEM focused graduates? April, 2013 Approached by Georgia Southern University REAL STEM Grant October, 2014 Visited Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology (GSMST) & Forsyth Central High School And the journey continued until…. August 4, 2016 The doors opened on an exciting adventure

Laying the Foundation in Middle School Middle School Offering High School Credit Opportunities Physical Science Spanish I Implemented a Middle School STEM course

Effingham County School System STEM Academy The STEM Academy is designed to prepare students for success in post-secondary education, career, and citizenship. It will appeal to students who seek a small-school approach to learning, where academic subjects are connected, and where students are engaged in rigorous science and mathematics content integrated with a STEM-themed pathway.

Agenda Student Selection Process/Flow Charts High School Graduation Requirement STEM Endorsement Course Sequence Academic Elective Opportunity (MOWR) Scientific Research Course Key Features of the STEM Academy Stay Connected and Don’t Miss Deadlines

Georgia Milestones Achievement Levels Rising 9th Grade students Mathematics & Science scores Distinguished Learners demonstrate advanced proficiency in the knowledge and skills necessary at this grade level/course of learning, as specified in Georgia’s content standards. Proficient Learners demonstrate proficiency in the knowledge and skills necessary at this grade level/course of learning, as specified in Georgia’s content standards. Developing Learners demonstrate partial proficiency in the knowledge and skills necessary at this grade level/course of learning, as specified in Georgia’s content standards. 84 students automatically qualify to receive a STEM slot. Beginning Learners do not yet demonstrate proficiency in the knowledge and skills necessary at this grade level/course of learning, as specified in Georgia’s content standards.

Georgia Milestones Achievement Levels Rising 9th Grade students Mathematics & Science scores Distinguished Learners demonstrate advanced proficiency in the knowledge and skills necessary at this grade level/course of learning, as specified in Georgia’s content standards. Proficient Learners demonstrate proficiency in the knowledge and skills necessary at this grade level/course of learning, as specified in Georgia’s content standards. Developing Learners demonstrate partial proficiency in the knowledge and skills necessary at this grade level/course of learning, as specified in Georgia’s content standards. 238 students qualify for the lottery. Beginning Learners do not yet demonstrate proficiency in the knowledge and skills necessary at this grade level/course of learning, as specified in Georgia’s content standards. 877/223+53=276

Registration Process/ Flow Chart

Step #1

Graduation Requirements

STEM Endorsement Graduation Requirements

4 units

4 units 4 units

4 units 4 units 4 units

4 units 4 units 4 units 3 units

Foreign Language

STEM Pathways Scientific Research

Academic Elective Opportunity 27 TCSG courses transferable to USG

Academic Elective Opportunity 27 TCSG courses transferable to USG ARTS 1101 - Art Appreciation SPCH 1101 – Public Speaking College Admissions & Beginning College Transcript

Academic Elective Opportunity 9th Grade Schedule (Fall or Spring Semester) Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Course Duration: 34 Days SPCH 1101 Public Speaking (Face-to-Face) ARTS 1101 Art Appreciation Students will take the ACCUPLACER college entrance exam beginning in April 2017

New – Scientific Research Course

STEM Endorsement – Opportunity to earn 36 units

Key Features of the STEM Academy Tentative Bell Schedule The STEM Academy starts at 7:30. The student’s parents must provide transportation to the STEM Academy. This allows the student to maximize credit opportunities. Zero Period – 7:30 to 8:45 (75 minutes) First Period – 8:50 to 10:05 (75 minutes) Second Period – 10:10 to 11:25 (75 minutes) Third Period – 11:30 to 1:10 First Lunch – 11:30 to 11:55 Second Lunch – 12:00 to 12:25 Fourth Period – 1:15 to 2:30 (75 minutes) At 2:30, students will be transported back to their base high school for 7th period. Application: Question related to transportation

Key Features of the STEM Academy STEM Academy students will be exposed to a unique and rigorous curriculum. -opportunities for students to interact with STEM professionals -opportunities for students to interact with university partners to support curriculum

Key Features of the STEM Academy STEM Academy teachers are certified and highly qualified. Teachers may have business and industry experience. Teachers may have research experience. STEM Academy teachers will receive on-going STEM specific professional learning (including Project -Based Learning).

Key Features of the STEM Academy STEM Academy teachers will collaborate to plan integrated lessons, share/co-create STEM activities, and plan learning outcomes. STEM Academy will develop on-going relationships with business, community, and post-secondary partners.

Key Features of the STEM Academy STEM Academy students will be encouraged to participate in STEM competitions, STEM exhibits, and/or state and national STEM forums. Extended after-school STEM opportunities Robotics Team (TSA) Math Team Computer Science Team Science Olympiad Science Bowl Others

Key Features of the STEM Academy STEM Academy classrooms will be student-centered. STEM Academy students will have to think in complex ways and also apply knowledge & skills they have acquired.

Key Features of the STEM Academy STEM Academy will promote parental engagement. - Develop Academic Booster Club - Parents open doors for internship opportunities and research mentors - Develop connections for morning transportation

www.effinghamschools.com/stem

What Matters Most to Colleges College Prep Coursework (AP, Honors) Standardized Test Scores (ACT, AP, SAT) Overall High School Grades (Transcript) The Admission Essay Extracurricular Commitment Demonstrated Interest A Special Talent Letters of Recommendation Class Rank

Mr. Ashley Kieffer akieffer@effingham.k12.ga.us Dr. Kathy Pevey kpevey@effingham.k12.ga.us Office 754-5610