STEM Academy Under Microscope in Morristown

The goal, according to Morris School District Board member Ann Rhines, is to develop 21st century learning environments at Morristown High School and according to her curriculum report delivered last Monday night, the STEM program is well on the way to delivering that to Morristown students.

Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Acacdemy roll out occurred Fall of 2013 with the incoming freshman class of 2017. The STEM Academy offers a four-year program of studies designed for students in the Morris School District who have demonstrated success in mathematics and science and have expressed an interest in pursuing a STEM career. According to Rhines, the program is taking shape. 

“We are planning and implementing goals for the STEM Academy,” Rhine said.

The new research focus of the MHS STEM Academy has resulted in a mandatory freshman Research Science 1H course that targets science literacy, research skills, and exposing the students to the vast array of STEM careers while experiencing the inquiry and design processes.

Part of the curriculum updates include guest speakers, field trips, a community service requirement, and completion fo a STEM Academy elective track, with several STEM electives in one of the following areas: Biomedicine, Engineering, Architecture, Sustainability, or Computer Science.

“While the majority of the courses are already established there is room for students to follow their passions through their elective paths,” Rhines said.