Success Found Under a Microscope
The SJNA Science and Technology Department presents science as a logical observation, identification, experimental investigation, and descriptive and theoretical explanation of naturally occurring phenomena.
Science and Technology Department
Goals and Objectives
The Science and Technology Department stresses the importance of an awareness of processes, critical thinking, appreciation and logical reasoning, and understanding of the world around us by using various methods of investigation, such as observation, comparison, experimentation, and mathematical manipulation of data. Application of these principles in the natural sciences to include numerous courses in physical science, biology, chemistry, geology, astronomy, and STEM courses. The Science and Technology Department is also committed to the concept that science has a practical application and has to be understood in a larger cultural context. It is through the development of curiosity and inquiry that students are able to view science as an interdisciplinary study applicable to society.
Our Main Goals Include:
1. Relate scientific principles and concepts into everyday experiences.
2. To develop an appreciation for the orderliness of nature and expand each student’s curiosity into understanding the natural world.
3. To continually develop stronger critical thinking skills, problem-solving skills, and methods of categorization and organization.
4. Learn to work collaboratively with peers for labs and group activities.
5. Strive for growth in Science and STEM areas in ACT/SAT and AP Tests.
Science Course Selections
Middle School
Earth & Life Science
Physical Science
Standard College Prep
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Environmental Science
Geology & Earth Systems
Space Sciences and Meteorology
Zoology Botany
Honors and AP
Chemistry Honors
AP Environmental Science
AP Physics 1
AP Physics 2
AP Chemistry
Dual Enrollment College Credit
College Biology
College Physics: Earth and Sky
Science Course Pathways
See Our Curriculum Guide for Course Descriptions
Science Graduation Requirements
| College Prep Diploma | Humanities Honors Diploma | STEM Honors Diploma |
| 3 Science Credits | 3 Science Credits | 3 Science Credits (1 Credit at Honors Level) |
| Required: Bio, Chem and Physics | Required: Bio, Chem and Physics | Required: Bio, Chem and Physics |
Technology Course Selections
Engineering and Computer Science
We create an engaging classroom environment while empowering students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills. With courses offered in computer science and engineering, students not only master technical skills, but also learn to solve problems, think critically and creatively, communicate, and collaborate. Engineering teaches students that real-world problems often have multiple solutions with many pathways to achieve success. With engaging courses like environmental sustainability, civil engineering and architecture, digital electronics, and aerospace engineering, you can empower your students to explore possibilities, experiment, learn from failure, and turn ideas into reality. Computer Science empowers students to become creators, instead of merely consumers, of the technology around them. Courses cover topics beyond coding, including app development, simulation, and cybersecurity. Throughout the courses, students collaborate to design solutions to real-world challenges, while practicing ethical reasoning. Our computer science teachers instill in-demand knowledge and skills students will use in high school and for the rest of their lives, on any career path they take.
Middle School
PLTW: Gateway to Engineering
PLTW: Design and Modeling
PLTW: Flight and Space
Standard College Prep
Computer Fundamentals
Introduction to Computer Science
PLTW: Introduction to Engineering Design (IED)
Honors and AP
PLTW: Principles of Engineering (POE)
AP Computer Science Principles
See our Project Lead The Way Page (PLTW) for More Information
Technology Graduation Requirements
| College Prep Diploma | Humanities Honors Diploma | STEM Honors Diploma |
| 1 Technology Credit | 1 Technology Credit | 2 Technology Credits |
Meet Our Teachers (From Left to Right)
Roger Smith
Courses Taught:
8th Grade Physical Science
Biology
Middle School Gateway to Engineering
Andrew Johnson
Courses Taught:
Chemistry
Honor Chemistry
AP Chemistry
Bob Geiger
Courses Taught:
Geology Earth Systems
Environmental Science
AP Environmental Science
Zoology Botany
College Biology
College Physics: Earth and Sky
8th Grade Physical Science
7th Grade Earth and Life Science
Tom Szews
Courses Taught:
Introduction to Computers
AP Computer Science
Principles of Engineering
Introduction to Engineering Design
Ed Scharf
Courses Taught:
Physics
AP Physics 1
AP Physics 2
Principles of Engineering