A high school diploma with something extra!

Make your application to college or internship stands out about the rest?  

Colorado has created an endorsement that can be added to your high school transcript to tell everyone that you have excelled in you STEM courses.  This tells everyone that you are ready to take on the next challenge on your pathway to a career in a STEM field.  Whether you are looking for an internship, apprenticeship, technical training or a college education, the STEM Endorsed Diploma show that you have what it takes to be successful.

What do I need to do?

• Strive to earn A's and B's in all of your science and math classes.

• Demonstrate proficiency in math on standardized test.

• Complete 4 STEM courses  in addition to graduation requirement.

As you approach your senior year:

• Check you scores on standardized math tests.  If you scores aren't high enough plan to take the test again.

• Identify your "coherent sequence" of 4 STEM courses with a 3.5+ GPA.

• Identify the focus of your STEM Capstone project, applying what you have learned in your STEM classes.

• Talk to Mr Gray about your capstone project ideas and sign up for PLTW Engineering Design & Development.

Which courses count as STEM?

All high school science and math classes count as STEM courses. All computer science and engineering classes count along with robotics and drafting.  Jeffco is adding a note to course descriptions to indicate which classes count as STEM.  Talk to your high school counselor if you have more questions.

Colorado STEM Diploma Endorsement Criteria

As authorized by HB17-1201  as signed HB17-1201 pdf

Jeffco STEM Diploma Information

Complete graduation requirements with a “high level of proficiency” and meet the additional requirements listed below.

• Complete, with a 3.5+ average, a “coherent sequence” of at least 4 STEM courses beyond graduation requirements.

Possible example: 4th year of math, 4th year of science, 2 technology or engineering electives

• Proficiency in Mathematics

Predetermined by legislation, choose one of the following

• • • 28+ on math ACT

    • 600+ on math SAT

    • 5+ on math IB test

    • 4+ on math AP test

    • 280+ on Accuplacer (advanced algebra and functions exam) 

    • 85 on ASVAB

• STEM Capstone Project

  • Student will complete a STEM Capstone Project to demonstrate a “high level of mastery” for each of the following*:

    • Inquiry Based Learning, demonstrated by Asking Questions and Defining Problems

    • Creative Problem Solving, demonstrated by Applying Scientific and Mathematical Models to Explain Complex Ideas

    • Experimentation, demonstrated by Planning and Carrying out Investigations

    • Critical Thinking, demonstrated by Analyzing and Interpreting Data and Communicating Conclusions

    • Deductive and Inductive Reasoning, demonstrated by Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking

    • Understanding of Engineering Principles, demonstrated by Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

    • Effective Communication Skills, demonstrated by Engaging in Argument from Evidence

  • Must be designed with higher education and industry partners    Rubric for Capstone Project

DHRS offers PLTW Engineering Design & Development as the class where student can complete their STEM Capstone Project.  It can also count as one of the four additions STEM classes.  If you have questions, contact Mr. Gray (ST112 or christopher.gray2@jeffco.k12.co.us )