Across the country people are talking about STEM: science, technology, engineering and math. Specifically, they are talking about the lack of qualified applicants to fill STEM-related jobs in this country. “We want to make sure STEM education doesn’t fall behind, because it’s the engine of our research enterprises,” said Dr. Subra Suresh, the director of the National Science Foundation.
Vancouver Public Schools is responding with plans for a new school of choice in STEM education. Last winter planning teams, made up of representatives from Vancouver Public Schools, Clark College and Washington State University Vancouver, began researching other STEM schools in the country, and laying the groundwork for our own STEM school.
The new school, Vancouver iTech Preparatory, will open in September 2012. It will prepare students in grades 6-12 for college and careers in STEM-related fields. Through partnerships with higher education and local high-tech companies, the new school is envisioned as an exciting, real world environment for all of its students and teachers.
Desired outcomes of Vancouver iTech Preparatory
• To integrate technical and academic education in a school that equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for post-secondary education and leadership in STEM-related fields
• To increase the number of underrepresented students in STEM who succeed in high school and post-secondary education
• To produce outstanding graduates who are competent, responsible and compassionate leaders prepared for the challenges of the 21st century
• To develop capacity regionally to produce highly qualified science and math educators in partnership with higher education
Lottery timeline The lottery for admission to Vancouver iTech Preparatory will be held on March 13, 2012. Letters notifying students of lottery results will be mailed home on March 26.
