Morristown High School
STEM Academy
(Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
Information & Application Packet
2015 – 2016
Morristown High School STEM Academy
Introduction to STEM
Producing Independent Thinkers and Collaborative Learners within the STEM Fields of Study.
Today’s job market is ever changing due to our society’s increasing dependence on, and
expansion of new technology. Accordingly education itself is changing dynamically in order
to keep pace and meet the future needs of our students. Recognizing this need resulted in the
development of the MHS STEM Academy, which offers specially designed curriculum
tracks for high school students who are seriously considering a career in the STEM fields.
The STEM Academy will expose students to and prepare them for problem-based learning,
scientific and mathematical orientated fields of study, and develop the latest STEM skills and
aptitudes which can be successfully integrated into today’s ever-changing technological job
market.
STEM Faculty
Miss Surina Ranawat & Ms. Janyce Trampler- Academy Program Directors
Science
Ms. Mariel Kolker – Engineering, Nanoscience
Mr. Joseph Componile - Physics, Engineering
Dr. Anthony Danese – Physics, Astronomy
Mr. Rodney Lee – Chemical Engineer
Ms. Bernadette Mehrtens – Physics, Engineering
Mr. Michael Weller – Environmental Science, Biology
Ms. Deborah Spencer – Physics, Aerospace Engineering
Dr. Edwin Villhauer – Chemistry
Ms. Surina Ranawat – STEM, Forensics, Marine Biology Ms. Janyce Trampler – Biology, Anatomy & Physiology
Technology
Mr. Michael Campbell – Wood Design & Architecture
Mr. Jack Rizzo – CAD, Tech Design, TSA
Ms. Lauren Shohen – CAD, Robotics, Sustainability
Mr. Kenneth Arntzen – Calculus, Trigonometry
Ms. Marina Bragina – Calculus
Ms. Christiana Kemp – Linear Algebra
Mathematics
Ms. Christina Bifulco – Calculus, Civil Engineer
Ms. Samantha Margenau – AP Computer Science
Ms. Kathleen Wood - Computer Science
Academic & Professional Mentors
Pfizer
Johnson & Johnson
Wyeth
NJIT
Bell Labs
PSE&G
Stevens Institute of Technology
Liberty Science Center
Rutgers University – School of Engineering
The College of New Jersey
Princeton Plasma Physics Lab
College of St. Elizabeth
Novartis
JCP&L
UMDNJ
Honeywell
Covanta / SGAP
BASF
Dolan DNA Labs
NJ iSTEM Initiatives
Montclair State University
Fairleigh Dickinson University
Drew University
Morristown Memorial Hospital
STEM Academy Frequently Asked Questions:
What is STEM Education?
Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education is a relatively new mode of thinking about how
best to educate high school students for the workforce and for post-secondary education.
STEM education is not simply a new name for the traditional approach to teaching science and mathematics, nor is it
just the grafting of “technology” and “engineering” layers onto standard science and math curricula. STEM education
removes the traditional barriers erected between the four disciplines, by integrating the four subjects into one cohesive
stream of teaching and learning. The engineering component puts emphasis on the process and design of solutions
instead of the solutions themselves. This approach allows students to explore math and science in a more personalized
context, while helping them to develop the critical thinking skills that can be applied to all facets of their work and
academic lives. Engineering is the method that students utilize for discovery, exploration, and problem solving.
The technology component allows for a deeper understanding of the three other parts of STEM education. It allows
students to apply what they have learned, utilizing computers with specialized and professional applications like
Autodesk Design Academy and computer animation. These and other applications of technology allow students to
explore STEM subjects in greater detail and in a practical manner.
Why is STEM education important?
High school education must adapt to the changing needs of America’s economy. All sectors of the work-force – from
entry-level jobs to more advanced positions – are requiring workers to have a greater capacity to think critically, work
independently, and apply an ever widening set of sophisticated skills. Even entry- level jobs require these sophisticated
skills from their “unskilled” workers.
Increasingly more college graduates are opting out of technical fields like engineering and the hard sciences, reducing
the supply of potential workers for America’s emerging needs within these fields. As current workers in the
engineering and hard science fields reach retirement age, the United States will not be able to fill these positions to
keep itself competitive in the international labor market.
STEM education fosters and supports students’ interest in these kinds of careers and provides the entry-level skills for
the workforce and for post-secondary education.
How much does it cost to take part in the STEM Program?
The STEM Program is offered free of charge to all participants through the Morris School District and partnering
universities and grant donors. In addition, MHS students will have school issued chrome books to conduct their
educational research.
How do we recruit students?
We are looking for bright, motivated young people who are interested in math and science and have a passion for
STEM related study. In the late fall and early winter, we contact surrounding middle schools for teacher
recommendations, asking teachers and counselors to help us to identify students who they think would benefit from
our programming. We post our application online, so everyone can access our information in time for our deadline.
If I get into the STEM Academy, do I have a better chance of getting into competitive schools?
The STEM Academy is an excellent place to start, but that's just the beginning. You will have to work hard and make a
serious commitment to your learning throughout middle and high school.
What if my child doesn't want to participate in some of the activities?
The STEM Academy is a competitive program and selected participants are expected to take part in the full
complement of programming. Some of these programs include professional speakers, mentors, field experiences,
summer workshops, research, and job shadowing.
What resources are available for parents?
We believe that parents are children's first teachers. The STEM Academy works closely with parents throughout the
year to ensure that participants are receiving the academic enrichment they need. Many parents serve as guest
professional speakers as well as field experience guides. To cultivate those relationships, we host Parent Seminars in
collaboration with the Morristown High School Open House and Parent-Teacher Conferences.
Can my child opt out of the STEM Program?
The STEM Academy is a competitive program and, as such, selected students are expected to pursue the STEM
program throughout their high school career. For this reason, it is important that students learn about the program
requirements and consider their level of interest and commitment to the STEM course of study before submitting an
application. A student wishing to opt out of the program is asked to submit a letter, signed by a parent or guardian,
stating his/her intentions to withdraw from the program and why.
What are the STEM Academy program requirements?
- Maintain a B or better average
- Completion of 9th grade Intro to STEM Research Course
- Total of 100 community service hours to graduate (25 per year)
- Enrollment into one of the following STEM major programs by sophomore year: Biomedicine,
Engineering, Architecture, Computer Science, Environmental Sustainability
- Attend professional meetings and presentations
- Attend the ‘Summer STEM Workshop’
- Complete the course requirements for each STEM major
What is the entrance exam and interview?
STEM Academy applicants will be invited to Morristown High School for an interview and brief assessment.
The exam will evaluate the student’s knowledge of science and mathematics and assess her/his problemsolving and critical thinking skills. The assessment will be followed by a brief personal interview by MHS
STEM Academy faculty.
MORRISTOWN HIGH SCHOOL STEM ACADEMY
We are very excited that you are interested in the MHS STEM Academy! The application process for the
STEM Academy is thorough and time sensitive. All interested students must apply for acceptance into the Morristown
High School STEM Academy, submitting a complete application packet by the accepted deadline of Friday 11/13/15.
Potential applicants must submit all required information, listed below, by the due date to be considered for admission.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the academy directors:
Miss Surina Ranawat
surinaranawat@msdk12.net
973-292-2000 ext. 3666
Ms. Janyce Trampler
janycetrampler@msdk12.net.
973-292-2000 ext. 2142
Items to submit for the STEM application:
Completed Application Form
Teacher Recommendation Forms (Preferably from Math/Science)
Student’s Personal Essay
(Appendix A)
(Appendix B/C/D)
(Appendix E)
* All items must be typed and submitted in one manila folder.
* Front of folder must be labeled with your full name and name of middle school.
* All instructions must be followed to ensure your application is properly evaluated.
Deadline Due Date: Postmarked by FRIDAY 11/13/2015!!!
No applications will be accepted after this date.
Please return all items to:
Morristown High School
Main Office
50 Early Street
Morristown, NJ 07960
Appendix A
STEM Academy Application Form
Please fill out the following information below.
ALL sections must be fully completed and TYPED in order to process your application in a timely manner.
The information in Appendix A and E may be typed, and recreated on a separate document.
Part I-Contact Information
Applicant Name (First, middle, last):
Date of Birth (MM/DD/YY):
Gender (M or F):
Name of Middle School:
Home address (Street, Town, zip code):
Parent/Guardian Name (First, Last):
Parent/Guardian email address:
Parent/Guardian phone number:
Part II-Applicant Interests
Please list any activities, clubs, hobbies, sports, and/or community service you have participated in.
Part III-Teacher Recommendations
Please provide the information below for each teacher that has agreed to write you a recommendation.
Name:
School:
Email:
Name:
School:
Email:
Name:
Email:
School:
Please complete below the student’s current academic schedule:
Student Name: _____________________________________________
COURSE
1. _________________________________________________________
2. _________________________________________________________
3. _________________________________________________________
4. _________________________________________________________
5. _________________________________________________________
6. _________________________________________________________
7. _________________________________________________________
8. _________________________________________________________
________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
_______________________
Date
Appendix B
STEM Academy Teacher Recommendation
Student Name:______________________________
School: ____________________________________
Current Grade: ____
Teacher Name:________________________________
Grade Level & Subject Area: ___ / ______________
Email: _______________________________________
Please read the description of each characteristic. Mark a 1 in the appropriate column and calculate the totals below.
The student….
Always
Frequently
Occasionally
Rarely
Never
Problem Solving Ability
Provides alternate or multiple solutions to questions
Reasoning Ability
Understand cause and effect; sees patterns and
relationships
Natural Inquiry
Seeks information and answers to thoughts, is curious
Interest (s)
Is passionate about and has sound knowledge of STEM
topics
Collaboration Skills
Actively engages group members, is respectful of
divergent ideas offered by others and contributes
effectively
Communication Skill
Organizes and expresses ideas with detail and add
abstractions
Motivation
Is a self-starter and has intrinsic and independent task
commitment
Leadership
Is committed, maintains focus on goals, has empathy for
others, is positive and trustworthy, has values
Column Total:
Multiply column total by weighted number (1-5):
__ x 5 =__
__x 4 =__
__ x3 =__
__x2 =__
__x1 =__
Add the weighted numbers to provide a total:
Briefly, please provide a couple of reasons as to why you are recommending this student for the STEM Academy:
PLEASE RETURN TO THE STUDENT BEFORE NOVEMBER 13TH IN A SIGNED AND SEALED ENVELOPE.
THERE IS A VERY SPECIFIC APPLICATION TIME LINE FOR ALL STUDENTS.
Appendix C
STEM Academy Teacher Recommendation
Student Name:______________________________
School: ____________________________________
Current Grade: ____
Teacher Name:________________________________
Grade Level & Subject Area: ___ / ______________
Email: _______________________________________
Please read the description of each characteristic. Mark a 1 in the appropriate column and calculate the totals below.
The student….
Always
Frequently
Occasionally
Rarely
Never
Problem Solving Ability
Provides alternate or multiple solutions to questions
Reasoning Ability
Understand cause and effect; sees patterns and
relationships
Natural Inquiry
Seeks information and answers to thoughts, is curious
Interest (s)
Is passionate about and has sound knowledge of STEM
topics
Collaboration Skills
Actively engages group members, is respectful of
divergent ideas offered by others and contributes
effectively
Communication Skill
Organizes and expresses ideas with detail and add
abstractions
Motivation
Is a self-starter and has intrinsic and independent task
commitment
Leadership
Is committed, maintains focus on goals, has empathy for
others, is positive and trustworthy, has values
Column Total:
Multiply column total by weighted number (1-5):
__ x 5 =__
__x 4 =__
__ x3 =__
__x2 =__
__x1 =__
Add the weighted numbers to provide a total:
Briefly, please provide a couple of reasons as to why you are recommending this student for the STEM Academy:
PLEASE RETURN TO THE STUDENT BEFORE NOVEMBER 13TH IN A SIGNED AND SEALED ENVELOPE.
THERE IS A VERY SPECIFIC APPLICATION TIME LINE FOR ALL STUDENTS.
Appendix D
STEM Academy Teacher Recommendation
Student Name:____________________________
School: __________________________________
Current Grade: ____
Teacher Name:_________________________________
Grade Level & Subject Area: ___ / _______________
Email: ________________________________________
Please read the description of each characteristic. Mark a 1 in the appropriate column and calculate the totals below.
The student….
Always
Frequently Occasionally
Rarely
Never
Problem Solving Ability
Provides alternate or multiple solutions to questions
Reasoning Ability
Understand cause and effect; sees patterns and
relationships
Natural Inquiry
Seeks information and answers to thoughts, is curious
Interest (s)
Is passionate about and has sound knowledge of
STEM topics
Collaboration Skills
Actively engages group members, is respectful of
divergent ideas offered by others and contributes
effectively
Communication Skill
Organizes and expresses ideas with detail and add
abstractions
Motivation
Is a self-starter and has intrinsic and independent
task commitment
Leadership
Is committed, maintains focus on goals, has empathy
for others, is positive and trustworthy, has values
Column Total:
Multiply column total by weighted number (1-5):
__ x 5 =__
__x 4 =__
__ x3 =__
__x2 =__
__x1 =__
Add the weighted numbers to provide a total:
Briefly, please provide a couple of reasons as to why you are recommending this student for the STEM Academy:
PLEASE RETURN TO THE STUDENT BEFORE NOVEMBER 13TH IN A SIGNED AND SEALED ENVELOPE.
THERE IS A VERY SPECIFIC APPLICATION TIME LINE FOR ALL STUDENTS.
Appendix E: Student’s Personal Essay
Describe a time when you personally encountered and solved a challenge using Science, Technology,
Engineering, or Math. Be specific in your examples. Your essay should be typed, double-spaced, and 2-4
pages in length.
Appendix F: Entrance Exam & Interview
* NOTE: Exams and Interviews will be completed at MHS or on-site at current middle school in the
month of December.
STEM ACADEMY TIMELINE
Thursday 10/1/2015:
2016-17 Application Released
Thursday 10/8/2015:
Discover MHS 8th Grade Night
Friday 11/13/2015:
Application Deadline
December 2015 (TBD):
Entrance Exam and Personal Interviews
January 2016:
Acceptance Letters Mailed Out
Friday 1/29/2016:
Confirmation of Acceptance from Student