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STEM » STEM Distinction Program

STEM Distinction Program

Important note: please ensure you completely read and understand the program requirements below before applying to the STEM Distinction Program.

The STEM Distinction program recognizes students who have high achievement in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) while attending Mater Dei.

This program is ideal for students considering a college major or career in a STEM-related field. Students will supplement their college preparatory coursework with an emphasis on STEM-designated classes and experiences. Students will join the program in their freshman or sophomore year. Upon successful completion of the program requirements, students will receive a special notation on their final Mater Dei High School transcript and be recognized at Senior Awards.

To be eligible for the program, students must meet the following requirements:

Course Requirements:

  • Complete at least 1 Math and 1 Science class each year (freshman through senior year) with a B or better in each class
  • Maintain a cumulative, unweighted GPA of 3.5 or above
  • Complete 1 approved STEM elective course
    • Robotics & Engineering
    • Intro to Coding
    • AP Computer Science Principles
    • AP Computer Science A
  • Successfully complete at least 2 Advanced Placement STEM courses with grades of B or better in each course
    • AP STEM courses include: AP Computer Science A, AP Computer Science Principles, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Physics 1, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Statistics
    • Dual Enrollment courses may qualify; approval from the STEM coordinator required
 
 
STEM Speaking Events:
 
  • Students must attend at least 2 STEM Speaking Events each year, in person or virtually, for a total of 8 Speaking Events by their senior year. More information on upcoming speaking events and how to submit proof of attendance will be available on the STEM Canvas page once the student is admitted to the program.
 
STEM Experiences:
 
  • Students must complete four different STEM Experiences by the end of the fall semester of their senior year. At least one experience must be completed by the end of the spring semester of their sophomore year. Students will submit a reflection and other proof of completion as requested. The following are approved experiences:
    • Shadow a scientist, engineer, or someone else in a STEM-related job field
    • Design your own app
    • Design and conduct your own experiment
    • Attend a STEM-related workshop or field trip
    • STEM Internship
    • Summer STEM experience, including the international Science trips
    • Support 2 Robotics competitions (spring semester only, dates will be posted)
    • Active participation on the Robotics Team
    • Active participation in Pre-Med Club or another STEM Club on campus (letter of participation from moderator required)
    • Take Science Lab Assistant course for 1 year
    • If you are participating in something that you feel would qualify, please contact the STEM coordinator for approval.

  

Applications for 2023-2024 School Year will open in August 2023.

Questions? Contact Mr. Tricomo ([email protected])