Academy-Specific Courses

This experiential course immerses students in the investigation of real-world engineering and technology problems and decisions affecting their local, state, national and global communities. The course encourages students to use the habits of mind employed by actual scientists, engineers, technology specialists and mathematicians. Students work in teams to identify a problem relevant to life in Alexandria and consistent with identified course themes. Each problem-solution, investigation and decision-making scenario makes use of a design cycle protocol and is conducted using a combination of laboratory and field experiences. Students’ physical work space allows them to access support to gain hands-on experiences with a range of technologies and innovative processes related to designing and building projects. Partners with local STEM businesses and organizations bring industry experts into the classroom for collaboration in problem solving.

STEM Seminar is a course intended to provide students with the opportunity for practical application of skills and knowledge learned in previous STEM courses. In addition to developing an understanding of the professional and ethical issues encountered by STEM professionals, student learn to refine their skills in problem solving, research, communication, data analysis, teamwork, and project management. Instruction will be delivered through school laboratory training or through work-based learning arrangements such as internships, cooperative education, service learning, mentoring, and job shadowing. Students will also explore post-secondary study options in STEM fields. This course will include opportunities for: a) apprenticeships, mentorships, job shadowing, internships, cooperative education; b) project-based learning opportunities; c) school, community, or service learning experiences; d) a culminating research project with an electronic portfolio and final STEM reflection presentation.

This course is offered in collaboration with the Urban Alliance, a non-profit organization with a track record of effective programming to help high school seniors’ transition to college and careers. It is also a college credit required course, SDVlOO, at NOVA. Topics covered in this course include: interview skills, resume writing, professional ethics, career assessment and exploration, study skills, time management, and financial literacy. Students receive six weeks of pre-work training to prepare them to be successful in their paid, professional internships and on-going training and support throughout the year. All students are mentored at their internships. Students work 12 hours/week during the school year and 32 hours/week in the summer after graduation. Interns are paid and evaluated, with the potential to receive up to two raises over the course of the program.

Work-Based Learning and College Exploration combines academic study of college and workplace skills with a 16-week work-based learning experience. During Quarter 1, students conduct research, write resumes and engage in interviews to secure an internship placement for the second and third quarters. During their internships, students develop important workplace competencies while exploring particular career interests. Quarter 4 focuses on reflection of learning and essay writing for college applications. English language learners participating in the internship program have the opportunity to apply English language skills and academic knowledge to real-world situations and purposes that prepare them for life beyond high school in post-secondary institutions and professional work environments.