North Carolina New Schools, in partnership with others in business, government, philanthropy and education, is building a new vision of teaching and learning to prepare students for work and life in this century. A globally competitive, knowledge-based economy is a fact of life for North Carolina’s high school students and science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are critical drivers in that economy.
NC New Schools works with a network of innovative high schools focused on economic-related STEM themes to strengthen instructional practice and build more effective, challenging curriculum. Specific services and opportunities available to these network schools include innovation challenges, study visits, facilitation of business partnerships and content-related instructional coaching.
These schools aim to raise student performance and engagement by changing students’ perceptions of science and mathematics as well as their perceived and achieved abilities in these disciplines. Schools focus on fields consistent with NC’s economic and workforce development requirements including:
- energy and sustainability
- health and life sciences
- aerospace, advanced manufacturing and security
- biotechnology and agriscience
STEM-themed schools provide the tools and space for exploration and invention and foster a culture of collaborative inquiry among faculty and students. STEM curriculum emphasizes connections within and between the fields of mathematics and science; heavily and meaningfully integrates technology; and introduces and continually engages students in the engineering design process. The arts and humanities further support the STEM focus, and all courses highlight the role of STEM in the global society and economy.
Beyond content knowledge, STEM-themed schools value and cultivate creativity and develop the problem solving, communication, and collaboration skills that drive innovation. Extracurricular activities, summer programs, virtual and blended opportunities, and internships provide learning experiences that increase students’ awareness of and interest in STEM and its importance in sustaining and improving our lives.
