Partnership with Stratford Academy of Science and Engineering

Dateline:  August 7, 2006
Dear Fellow Alums,

The Stratford Academy of Science and Engineering
Stratford High School
Spring Branch Independent School District

November, 2006 News Article: SBISD honor "Good Neighbors", including the Club of South Texas

The Stratford Academy of Science and Engineering will encourage all students in the area of science through exciting experiences in the high school science classroom and extended experiences through off-campus activities in the Houston scientific community.  Supported by a partnership with the MIT Alumni Club of South Texas, the Stratford Science Department will enrich and enliven science classrooms with computer simulations – many developed at MIT – that reinforce basic scientific principles and encourage students to experiment and develop a deeper understanding of the course material.  Technology and lab upgrades, combined with extensive teacher development, assure a state-of-the-art science education that encourages students toward careers in science and engineering.  Partnerships with Houston area businesses and universities will bring science to life in ways heretofore unattainable for our students.

Students enrolled in the Academy will be required to complete a rigorous science and mathematics curriculum which includes AP-level courses.  In addition, Academy Juniors will participate in a lab class designed to expose them to careers in science and engineering.  Field trips to local business and university research labs will be followed by related research and lab work back at Stratford.  Academy Seniors will be required to complete a Research and Design project.  Small teams of students will work with community mentors on projects that can be relevant to the current research issues in both industry and academia.  Academy students will also be expected to complete a minimum number of science-related service hours through tutoring, teacher assistance, or external volunteer work.

Several MIT graduates who are also Stratford High parents, including chemical engineer and business owner Bob Temple '55, Dave Johnston '73, Mike Boylan '54 and Ed Rinehart '64 played pivotal roles as part of a working committee to make the new science academy come alive.

How Can You Help?

• Industry Laboratory Partners agree to admit students into their labs, sponsor internships and/or foster relationships between their scientists, the students, and their teachers.

• Curriculum Design Partners agree to provide expertise and advice in the development of engaging curriculum materials, software, and classroom lab activities.

• Resource Partners agree to provide in-kind contributions of equipment, supplies, and resources to maintain state-of-the-art classrooms.

• Financial Partners agree to provide financial support for the Academy either on a one-time or annual basis.  Stratford High School has already committed over $60,000 of its own funds in technology, teacher stipends, and training to launch the Academy.

For more information, please contact us.

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Last modified 01/25/09 06:26 PM