STEMS@Therrell High School

The minute you enter the STEMS you will feel the energy, the energy of scholars who know what they want to be and are confident in their abilities to positively impact the world with their imagination and innovation. They are secure in the knowledge that they are not anonymous, like students in a school large enough to be a city. They are known, and known well. You will feel the enthusiasm of teachers who know that they don’t only teach subjects, but young men and women who need the closeness of positive role models just as much as they need the 3-Rs. Each day begins with a 35-minute advisory session, where scholars and their advisors sit down together to discuss college and career planning, current events, or life management plans. Each week ends with a town hall meeting where the whole school comes together to celebrate our accomplishments. The year ends with a field trip for the entire school community, scholars, staff, and parents, which solidifies us as a family.

But the most exciting aspect of our program is our challenging curriculum in mathematics, science, and engineering. Through project-based learning, scholars connect classroom concepts to the real-world. Pre-engineering courses provide exposure to electrical, chemical, civil, and mechanical engineering, where scholars are required to either invent a new product or improve upon an existing design. We do not teach technology; technology is a tool for teaching and learning. For example, Excel is used in the math class to explore functions and analyze data. Word is used in the English class to allow scholars to edit their writing and send to their mentors for feedback.

With the nation’s fervent drive to promote STEM careers and ameliorate the under-representation of minorities, our school represents a significant part of the solution. Our School of Energy, an Early College Academy, opens fall 2009, and will provide scholars with opportunities to be on the cutting edge of energy research and development. With the support of Georgia Power, a Southern Company, Georgia Institute of Technology, and other very committed partners, we are confident that we will be among the world leaders in STEM education.

The STEMS is an exciting place to work and learn. We are a strong team with a passion for teaching and learning. As always, we are looking for smart and talented future scholars and instructors to come join our school family. Our focus is on preparation for college, so students do not have to have an interest in engineering to attend our school. If you have any questions or comments, please contact us at 404-802-5360 or kware@atlanta.k12.ga.us.

Sincerely,

Esmie D. Gaynor
Principal