STEM Academy Learning Environment

Students in the STEM Academy have access to a wide range of 21st century tools, including several 3D printers, a laser cutter, CNC equipment, programmable microcontrollers (Arduino & Raspberry Pi), VEX robotics, Autodesk 2D & 3D CAD software, Adobe CS6 Suite, wide format printers for architectural and design printing, electronics tools, mechanical engineering tools and Vernier & Pasco data collection probes, all housed in our MakerSpace. A university-quality wet-lab for STEM chemistry and biology students houses modern laboratory equipment, including gel-electrophoresis for DNA studies, high-power microscopes, digital balances and a full range of laboratory glassware. STEM students also have access to a state-of-the-art greenhouse for biological studies. All STEM classes routinely incorporate technology, with a 1:1 device -to-student ratio.

Most STEM classrooms are designed for student collaboration and project-work, with tables and chairs replacing desks. STEM classrooms are equipped with either touchscreen TVs or interactive digital projectors.

The STEM conference room is a high-quality meeting space equipped with leading-edge technology which rivals boardrooms and meeting spaces found in industry. The STEM conference room is used for student collaboration, student meetings with industrial advisors and student presentations.

Examples of STEM Student Portfolio Projects

  • Student designed and created a working brain-wave monitor which controls a servo motor
  • Student designed and prototyped a modification to a surgical instrument to overcome a common problem in gall-bladder surgery
  • Student developed working blueprints for two buildings which were subsequently constructed
  • Student designed orthopaedic training device for cheerleading stunts
  • Student created video-games and animations
  • Student designed rocket engines
  • Engineering study of Thompson Bridge design and construction
  • Microprocessor control of instrument-mounted LED lighting for NHHS Drumline
  • Drone based study of chlorophyll A/B ratios in local pastures using IR/Vis cameras
  • Solar-powered vehicles
  • Microprocessor monitored knee-brace for measuring physical therapy parameters

For more information, please contact Deana Harper (STEM Academy Coordinator) at deana.harper@hallco.org (770-983-7331).