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STEM Academy Deadline is April 1, 2022

Do you have an eighth grader with a curious mind? The STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Academy at Alexandria City High School Minnie Howard Campus may be a good fit. The deadline to apply is April 1, 2022.

The STEM Academy is a small, cohort-based learning community for students with an interest in STEM topics. This ninth-grade academy within the Alexandria City High School community is built upon student-centered, inquiry-based learning, and offers an environment that is both challenging and supportive.

In the STEM classroom, students become learners in a real-world, problem-solving and project-based environment. They are immersed in the investigation of engineering topics, current problems in technology, as well as decisions affecting the local, state and national government.

Additionally, STEM students take core classes taught by a collaborative team of teachers that focus on developing connections between the content areas with a specific focus on STEM-related issues. Through the cohort model, students study math, English, engineering, history, and science with a concentration on the core Alexandria City Public School curriculum, but with a focus on STEM-centered learning objectives. This group-oriented and rigorous model prepares students for STEM-related college courses and careers after high school.

Interested students may apply online. A complete application includes:

General student information.
An essay.
A video presentation (virtual interview).
Two teacher recommendations.

For additional information, please contact Benjamin Mathews, STEM 9 team lead, at benjamin.matthews@acps.k12.va.us. Applications are being accepted through Friday, April 1, 2022.

Planning for Spring Break: Health and Safety Reminder

ACPS Spring Break is April 11-15, 2022, and we know that many students, families and staff are looking forward to it. Please consider observing the following health and safety reminders to help reduce COVID-19 transmission and keep our schools open for in-person learning.

If any family members have not yet been vaccinated, consider getting a COVID-19 vaccination for all family members ages 5+ before you leave.
Encourage family members who have been vaccinated to get boosters before traveling.
Make sure everyone’s flu shots are up to date.
Wear masks if around people who are not vaccinated.
Test before traveling and again when returning home.
Review updated guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on transmission levels at your destination.
Make sure students bring home all learning devices from school in the event that there is any need to transition to temporary virtual learning.

School Board Agenda

At its meeting on March 24, 2022, the School Board agenda will include an update on COVID-19. For School Board meeting agendas and documents, visit Electronic School Board. You can also visit the School Board meeting webpage for information on how to view meetings live and participate.

COVID-19 Transmission Rate: March 17, 2022

As of Thursday, March 17, 2022, the total COVID-19 cases is 29,883. View the City of Alexandria’s COVID-19 Dashboard to learn more.