Downingtown Area School District officials approached their predicament like the problem solvers they hope to develop at the district's newest high school.
The equation included student overcrowding, a limited budget, and a plan to modernize programs with a cutting-edge curriculum.
Their solution opened its doors Aug. 29, when the new Downingtown STEM Academy held its first classes for 450 students in one of the Chester County district's oldest buildings.
The new magnet high school offers specialized curriculum in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). It is one of a growing number of similar programs and schools popping up in the region.
The academy offers a program that includes a rigorous curriculum of high school and college-level courses that are recognized internationally. Students pick a special area of academic focus in their junior and senior years. They also must participate in community-service projects and
To read the full, original article click on this link: New Downingtown STEM Academy aimed at developing innovators | Philadelphia Inquirer | 09/18/2011
Author: Kristin E. Holmes
