John Jay HS (East Fishkill) is one of two high schools in the Wappingers Central School District (WCSD), about 70 miles north of New York City. We have about 2000 students. You can find more information on our website at https://www.wappingersschools.org/johnjay
Founded in the fall of 2020, our program has already created some amazing opportunities for students to conduct research with experts in their fields of interest! The program has partnered with the University of Albany Science Research Program (https://www.albany.edu/uhs/science-research-program) which is a part of their University in the High School program (https://www.albany.edu/uhs). 11th and 12th graders with mentors can earn College Credit for their work.
Most students begin the program in 10th grade, although exceptions are occasionally made. In 10th grade, students are expected to learn about experimental techniques, error analysis, how to read and analyze research papers, and to search for mentors. The program also asks them to select an area of research interest, learn about that field, and read research papers within that field, so they are prepared to find and be successful in research opportunities within that field. Students often develop and conduct an experiment during the summer after 10th grade or 11th grade. They then analyze their results. In 12th grade, they're often finishing their analysis and/or presenting their results in competitions. They may also write a research paper.
Ultimately, every student's journey will be a bit different, and there will inevitably be bumps in the road. That's OK! Part of the program involves learning to be resilient and to problem solve when you run into challenges.
EXCITING NEWS in 2023-24. The other large high school our the district, Roy C Ketchum HS, started a Science Research program of their own. We're so excited for them!!! Kyle Bautista is teaching the course.
The teacher in charge of the program at John Jay HS is Ian Freedman. He is certified in Physics and Earth Science, with degrees in Physics and Astronomy and undergraduate and graduate research experience in astronomy and astrophysics. He is also a certified NY State Master Teacher and a NY State Education Specialist for NYSED.
The best way to reach him is by email at ian.freedman@wcsdny.org
[NEW in 2024] James Amodio will also be co-teaching period 5 of the course. He can be reached at james.amodio@wcsdny.org
If you want to talk on the phone or online, the best way to do so is to set up a meeting ahead of time.