FAQS

Q:  What is STEM?

A:  STEM – which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics – is a national education movement designed to create critical thinking skills across disciplines, prepare students for science and math courses in college, and help communities stay competitive in a global economy. Evidence shows these schools and programs produce graduates with a deeper knowledge and a stronger passion for learning, particularly science and mathematics. That knowledge and passion translate into much higher rates of college attendance and more students majoring in scientific and technical fields. We will strive to help all students engage in the 4 C’s: curiosity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication.

Q:  What is the STEM Magnet Program?

A:   The STEM Progam at LSHS 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.

Q:  How much does it cost for my student to attend the STEM Program?

A:  Nothing. The STEM Program is a specialized program school funded by the Effingham County School System.

Q:  Will attending the STEM Program help my student get into college?

A:  The STEM Program’s mission is to produce students who are college- and work-ready upon graduation. School courses and curricula are designed to make sure STEM Program graduates will be able to attend college and be successful once there. STEM Program students will have the opportunity to earn college credits while still enrolled in high school through Advanced Placement exams and AP College Board Exams.

Q:  Does the STEM Program offer foreign languages? Personal Fitness?

A:  The STEM Program will offer Spanish and French. Health and Personal Fitness is a graduation requirement for all students.

Q:  If my student is enrolled full-time at LSHS in the STEM Magnet Program, how will I stay informed about events happening and information being distributed at the base high school?

A:  All information that will be shared on the LSHS website and will be shared with the students in the STEM Program.

Q: Do the STEM Program students have the opportunity to take part in hands-on internships?

A: The STEM Program staff will work to develop new partnerships with STEM-focused businesses. Students can find and select their own internship opportunities. 

Q:  Who are the instructors? What are their credentials?

A:   STEM Program teachers are dedicated, passionate educators who continuously work to improve learning experiences for students. All Advanced Placement (AP) courses are taught by College Board certified instructors. Our teachers are employed by the Douglas County School System.

Q:  Who can attend the STEM Magnet Program?

A:  Students living in the Douglas County School District may attend the STEM Program if they meet the criteria. Our innovative, relevant programs will appeal to self-motivated, responsible students who seek a more personalized, small-school approach to learning, where academic subjects are connected, and where students engage in learning beyond the school walls. Students are admitted through an application and interview process in December of their 8th grade year. 

Q:  Why should my student attend the STEM Magnet Program?

A: STEM Program students will be given the opportunity to earn additional academic credits. Courses may be offered at the STEM Program that are not offered at other high schools within the county. The courses will be more rigorous, preparing students for STEM-related postsecondary majors and careers. Because the STEM Program offers more Advanced Placement courses, students may potentially earn additional college credits. STEM Program students will also be immersed in problem-based learning and have many opportunities for hands-on, real-world experiences.

Q:  Should my student excel in science and mathematics to be successful in this program?

A:  Yes. The student should be motivated in the disciplines of science and mathematics.

Q:  Do students receive a high school diploma from the STEM Program?

A:  Students will receive a diploma. Upon successful completion of the STEM Program graduation requirements, students will be acknowledged with a STEM Seal on their diploma. 

Q:  How are students transported to and from the school?

A:  Morning - LSHS school doors open at 7:30 AM. If the parent cannot provide transportation, there are Magnet buses that depart from each high school by 7:30 am to bring students to LSHS. Afternoon – At 3:10 pm students may be picked up from LSHS OR students can ride the Magnet Bus back to their zoned high school. From there they will need to be picked up. There is also the option for students to join SOAR and stay after school until 6:00pm.

Q:  Can students return to their zoned high school after they’ve started the STEM Magnet Program?

A:  Yes. We ask students and parents to carefully consider if the STEM Program is appropriate for them and recognize the responsibilities that come with attending this rigorous academic program. We are looking for students who want to be a part of something special, to take part in experiences not available at a typical high school, and to attend the STEM Program for all four years. Students who enroll are expected to complete the school year. However, a student may withdraw from the STEM Program within the first ten school days and return to their base school. The student will be responsible for any work missed at the base school. Students with a failing grade at the end of the nine-weeks grading period will be placed on academic probation. Parents will be notified and required to attend a student parent conference to discuss academic probation. This meeting will include a conversation as to whether the student should continue at the STEM Magnet program or return to the base school. The administrator of the STEM Program retains the authority to have the student return to the base school.

Q:   Will my student earn the five additional points for taking Honors/AP courses at the STEM Program?

A:   Yes. Please be mindful that while the additional points count for class rank/transcript grades, they will be removed in the HOPE GPA calculation.

Q:  How is Class Rank determined for the STEM Program?

A:  Final course grades are posted on the transcript for the base high school. Class Rank is calculated at for Lithia Springs High School.

Q:  Can students participate in extracurricular activities?

A:  Yes. It is highly encouraged. STEM Magnet students will be able to participate in sports and extra-curricular activities at LSHS. LSHS has many clubs and organizations including but not limited to TSA (Technology Student Association), SkillsUSA, FBLS, Students may elect to spend time after school preparing for Robotics competitions, Science and Engineering Fairs, etc.