STEM

STEM Pre-Conference Student Survey

NAF Academies focused on Engineering pathways answers an acute need for engineers in this country by educating high school students on the principles of engineering and providing content in the expanding fields of electronics, biotech, aerospace, civil engineering, and architecture. From 2012-2022, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that 180,000 new engineering jobs will be created. Women make up just 13% of the engineering workforce. Additionally, African American and Latino workers represent 29% of the general workforce population, but only 12% of the engineering workforce (US News 2015). NAF is working to recruit a diverse student body in engineering academies to fill this gap. 

The NAF - Northridge High School STEM Academy Engineering Endorsement was established in the Fall of 2012.  The sequence of coursework for the Engineering Endorsement is listed below. In addition to the courses identified, students may elect to pursue a variety of related District 6 electives, industry certifications, and concurrent enrollment options available through Aims Community College*. 

Additional requirements:

Physics or AP Physics

Contacts:

DAVID ISLEY - Engineering Instructor

ZACHARY ROMER - Engineering & Science Instructor

KRISTIE JULIEN - Mathematics & Engineering Instructor

MACHIN NORRIS - STEM Academy Coordinator

NAF's Academies of Information Technology prepare students for careers in programming, database administration, web design and management, digital networks, and other areas in the expanding digital workplace. With computer and mobile applications playing an increasing role in the economy, students participate in classes that provide them with the opportunity to learn highly marketable skills. 

NAF Academy of Information Technology curricula engages students through a series of career exploration courses. All courses use project-based learning techniques with an emphasis on strengthening literacy, project management, leadership, and team building skills while fostering creativity and innovation. The curriculum is vetted by industry professionals to ensure that the content is current and relevant. 

The Academy of Information Technology at Northridge High School, established in the Fall of 2015, has earned the designation as a Member Academy from the National Academy Foundation. The sequence of coursework for the NAF Academy of Information Technology at Northridge High School is listed below. Students may elect to pursue a variety of related District 6 electives and industry certification pathways as well as concurrent enrollment options available through Aims Community College*.

Students in the Academy of Information Technology will also successfully complete the following: 

• STEM Work Based Learning course followed by an internship of 180 hours or more
• STEM Capstone Course culminating in the development and execution of a Capstone project utilizing the proficiencies developed over the course of the program

Contacts:

BRENDA RANGEL - STEM Academy Coordinator

HANNAH HURLBURT - STEM Academy Counselor

Students in this pathway have chosen to challenge themselves with rigorous and advanced coursework concentrated in the areas of mathematics and science, and complemented by additional courses in Technology and Engineering. By the end of four years, students will have completed at least 10 credits of higher level math, science, and technology classes, including a minimum of 3 college level or Advanced Placement courses in math and science. 

Students in the academy of Math & Science will also successfully complete the following:

• STEM research-based course intended as preparation for continued studies at the collegiate level in STEM fields
• STEM Work Based Learning course followed by an internship of 180 hours or more
• STEM Capstone Course culminating in the development and execution of a Capstone project utilizing the proficiencies developed over the course of the program.

Students wishing to earn an endorsement in the Academy of Math and Science must have successfully completed Biology and Geometry prior to the beginning of their 10th grade year. The STEM Academy offers a summer STEM Cohort Geometry for rising 9th and 10th grade NHS students to achieve this mathematics requirement. 

Contacts: 

BRENDA RANGEL - STEM Academy Coordinator

KRISTIE JULIEN - Mathematics Instructor