High School STEM

Southern Maryland Christian Academy is dedicated to excellence in STEM education.  Throughout High School, students have the option to focus on a STEM path of their choice.  SMCA focuses on two major fields of Science: Computer Science and Engineering.  Southern Maryland Christian Academy is proud to adopt Project Lead the Way into the Secondary Program.  Project Lead the Way (PLTW) is the leading provider of rigorous and innovative STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education curricular programs.  PLTW’s comprehensive curriculum promotes critical thinking, creativity, innovation and real-world problem solving skills in students. The hands-on, project-based program engages students on multiple levels, exposes them to areas of study that they typically do not pursue, and provides them with a foundation and proven path to college and career success.  PLTW modules aligned to ninth-twelfth grade STEM standards.  (Please see course catalog for electives and course descriptions.)

Computer Science Path:  At a time when computer science affects how we work and live, PLTW Computer Science empowers students in grades 9-12 to become creators, instead of merely consumers, of the technology all around them. The program’s interdisciplinary courses engage students in compelling, real-world challenges. As students work together to design solutions, they learn computational thinking – not just how to code – and become better thinkers and communicators. Students take from the courses in-demand knowledge and skills they will use in high school and for the rest of their lives, on any career path they take.

Engineering Path:  From launching space explorations to delivering safe, clean water to communities, engineers find solutions to pressing problems and turn their ideas into reality. PLTW Engineering empowers students to step into the role of an engineer, adopt a problem-solving mindset, and make the leap from dreamers to doers. The program’s courses engage students in compelling, real-world challenges that help them become better collaborators and thinkers. Students take from the courses in-demand knowledge and skills they will use in high school and for the rest of their lives, on any career path they take.

More Information