The MNHS STEM Academy is a "school within a school" with the goal of providing students with a rigorous, STEM-enriched educational experience. MNHS STEM Academy students will be equipped with the future-ready skills needed for success in post-secondary STEM endeavors. Graduates earn an MNHS diploma with a STEM Academy seal of distinction.
MNHS STEM Academy students are required to take Design Thinking I and II (1.0 total credit). These courses, which will only be offered to MNHS STEM Academy students, focus on employability skills and the use of design thinking to solve real-world problems. Additionally, MNHS STEM Academy students are required to take four (4) AP classes before graduation. These courses are self-selected AP courses, however 3 of the 4 must be focused in Math, Science, Computer Science. Students will choose their remaining elective courses from the MNHS Course Selection Guide based on their areas of interest and aptitude.
MNHS STEM Academy students will follow the same schedule as their MNHS peers.
There are no restrictions on extra-curricular activities for MNHS STEM Academy students.
Yes, there will be a seal of distinction on your MNSD diploma.
MNHS STEM Academy students build capacity for future-ready skills by participating in STEM-focused coursework, rigorous core courses across all disciplines, and a minimum of four Advanced Placement classes in the areas of mathematics, science, and computer science. These are desirable pre-requisites for many post-secondary institutions.
The Marple Newtown School District takes cues from our industry partners to effectively develop curriculum and prepare our students for their post-secondary plans. The College and Career Access Center supports all MNHS students in their post-secondary pursuits.
Any 8th grader at Paxon Hollow Middle School or private/parochial school within the Marple Newtown School District can apply for acceptance in the MNHS STEM Academy.
Eighth grade students must complete an application, have a "B" average or better in all core courses, and secure two teacher recommendations.
For current MNSD students: Performance on MNSD's Mathematics, Science, and English/Language Arts benchmarks and IXL diagnostic assessments will be reviewed and considered.
For both current and non-MNSD students: Performance on standardized tests (e.g. PSSA, Terra Nova) will be reviewed and considered.
Student applications are evaluated by a review committee.
Reapplications in ninth grade will be considered on a case by case basis.
Opportunity for a ninth grade student to apply to the MNHS STEM Academy will be determined on a case by case basis.
The following website can provide information regarding the acceptance of AP credits: https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/getting-credit-placement/search-policies
Yes. AP Capstone is a diploma distinction recognized by colleges and universities that comes from College Board. In order to qualify for an AP Capstone diploma, students must take four (4) AP courses as well as AP Seminar and AP Research. Minimum AP test scores of "3" are required for this distinction. Any MNHS student can work towards AP Capstone.
Reach out to Christian Jasperson (MNSD Assistant Principal) or Jessica Mattei (Supervisor of Teaching and Learning) with any questions or concerns.