The Science and Technology Department

The Science and Technology Department offers programs in the state-mandated courses of Earth Science, Living Environment, Chemistry, and Physics at the Accelerated and Regents level. In addition, we have AP courses in Physics, Biology, Chemistry, and Environmental Science as well as a College Level Biology Course. The Science Department also offers electives in Forensics I and II, Marine Science, and Natural Disasters.

The Science Research Program involves students in advanced research projects. Students also have the opportunity to earn college credit in research through AP Capstone and the University of Albany. Students' projects will be entered in various competitions throughout the year. Many science internships are offered during the summer at a variety of research centers and universities. Students participating in these courses receive a more conceptual and practical understanding of science.

Several extra-curricular opportunities are available to our students each year. These include but are not limited to such activities as Science Olympiad, Physics Olympiad, National Science Bowl and Ocean Bowl.

The Science and Technology Department prepares students for meaningful STEM careers. Our courses emphasize the application of technological, engineering and robotics principles in order to develop skills to analyze and solve real world industry problems. With the goal of preparing students to succeed as the next generation of industrial and engineering technologists, the Technology Department offers a curriculum focused on developing fundamental technical and advanced skills. Courses balance theoretical education with industry-based with hands-on opportunities that expand a student's understanding of applied engineering.

Middle School students begin honing their engineering and technological skills through Project Lead the Way (PLTW) offerings. PLTW develops rigorous and engaging STEM curricula for K-12 students and provides students with engaging and skilled training which empowers students to develop the knowledge of engineering, robotics, and technology. Beginning in seventh grade, students have an opportunity to enroll in an introductory engineering course entitled Design and Modeling where they will learn to maintain a designer's workbook and learn about various computer software. Automation and Robotics are the cornerstone of the eighth grade curriculum. Students can choose from a group of non-sequential courses which include Introduction to Engineering Design, Civil Engineering and Architecture, and Computer Integrated Manufacturing. Satisfactory completion of Introduction to Engineering Design can be counted towards the art graduation requirement in high school