High School Math, Science and Technology MagnetCamas School District eighth graders with a penchant for numbers, beakers and computers have an exciting opportunity to turn their interests into college paths. Beginning with the ninth grade class in the fall of 2007, Camas High School will create a magnet program with a cohort of 30 students who have strong interest, aptitude and ability in math, science and technology. Over the next three years, an additional ninth grade cohort will be added each year as students progress through each grade level. The magnet program is distinguished by a strong research strand woven through all four years of instruction culminating in annual showcases and a senior research investigation. Highly qualified faculty members will foster advanced exploration of math, science and engineering topics. At all levels, students are exposed to integrated, advanced course work that explores real-world problems. The district will develop partnerships with high-tech and research-based organizations throughout the metro area. Through these community partnerships, students will have access to mentorships/internships with experts in their particular field of interest. This magnet program model is built around principles endorsed by the National Association for Specialty Secondary Schools of Science, Mathematics and Technology. The Camas School District is a member of this consortium and visited four member high schools in the Maryland/Virginia area before developing a similar design for this school. The goal of the academy is to instill the underlying values, skills, and behaviors that will enable students to enter chosen careers in the fields of science, math and technology. The experience will also position students to achieve success at institutes of higher learning. |
