About Us: Overview – STEM³ Academy

Who We Are

We are a WASC accredited school dedicated to K–12 students who are bright, have a passion for STEM-related fields, and benefit from non-traditional learning methods.

The idea of a specialized school for students with special gifts in the STEM disciplines is a big step forward for children with social and learning differences. STEM³ Academy grew out of a pilot program at The Help Group in 2013, and quickly gained traction in just a few short years. Today, we are located on three campuses and have over 150 students enrolled.

While paving the way to success for students with special needs, we are also filling the growing gap for skilled STEM workers nationwide. Economists report that the U.S. is poised to experience a severe shortfall of skilled workers to fill some 8.65 million jobs in STEM related fields.

Students with special needs can help fill that gap. With a 28% increase in the number of students with neuro-developmental differences enrolled in undergraduate STEM fields, we know there is a place for STEM³ Academy graduates in tomorrow’s workforce. Our school is designed to help students find pathways to meaningful work after they graduate from high school or college.

Our Approach

Through a collaborative process that involves the student, parents, and school, each student has a set of goals designed specifically for their unique profile. Our program focuses on the development, strengths and needs of the whole student by using his or her strengths as a base and creating strategies to work around the challenging areas to ensure success.

In addition to our highly specialized approach, our Sherman Oaks campus is dedicated to students who meet all of the STEM³ Academy requirements, but require a greater level of structure due to behavioral issues.

Areas of Focus

Content

Developmentally appropriate, specialized curriculum that features interdisciplinary connections across fields as well as deep exploration of concepts and themes

Method

Student-centered, project-based learning infused with real-world applications promoting critical thinking, creativity and collaboration

Pathway to Careers

Exposure to professional internships, mentorships, university collaborations, professional laboratories, and partnerships with the community that provide models for careers in STEM

21st Century Skills

Life skills training that focuses on the manner in which students approach the world and engage with it. This will play a key role in their own success.

Highlights

Small Classes—maximum of 14 students, led by teachers who are passionate about their field of expertise

Experiential Learning— assignments are geared to real-world problem solving

Community Collaboration— partnerships with individuals and organizations that focus on STEM and local universities

Personalized Learning—through the IEP process, each student has a set of goals designed especially for them and their unique learning style

Competitive Engagement—award winning robotics team exemplifies the commitment to hands-on experiential learning and solving real world problems typical of the school

State-of-the-Art Facilities—innovative lab that houses equipment for prototyping and projects building

The Help Group

STEM³ Academy

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