Students with an interest in science are, in many ways, the future. Those who have a passion for the sciences will grow up to make great discoveries and help our planet and population. These young scientists are the ones who will create methods for improving our environment. and find ways to cure chronic illness and disease. We need these young minds to flourish and learn in a setting that fosters an appetite for education. If you have a child (or teen) who has an interest in science, you will want to find a high school that can help them pursue their dreams. With an education from a science-focused high school, your teen can grow into a great mind of tomorrow.

Finding a science-focused high school requires some digging, but it is well worth the search. At a science-inspired high school like Connecticut River Academy, for example, students are offered a curriculum highly focused on environmental science and sustainability. Starting in grade 9, students take courses in:

• Advanced Manufacturing
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Geography
• Physics
• And other advanced science courses, both at the high school and college levels.

Where there is great focus on the sciences, there are students who are constantly exploring, discovering, and finding hands-on opportunities. If you are looking for a science-focused high school, read on. Here we explore the course offerings available at Connecticut River Academy, as well as the science high school classes that can be applied to their future college career.

High School Classes for Science-Loving Students

Long before Dr. Emmett Brown hopped in the DeLorean to travel “Back to the Future,” science-loving students have held a secret that few could appreciate: Science is cool! From missions in space to high-tech gadgets that have become a part of our daily lives, there are endless possibilities with the magic of science. Connecticut River Academy wants students to make these incredible discoveries someday, which is why the school immerses students in studies based on a sustainability theme starting their freshman year of high school.

The program of studies offered at Connecticut River Academy include:

1. Agriculture, Aquaculture, and Animals Life Science

This one semester elective engages students in using and maintaining animal and plant life – both terrestrial and aquatic – in the school’s habitat room, green roof, greenhouse, and school gardens. Extensive hands-on activities with a high level of independent responsibilities are part of the course. Open to students in grades: 10, 11, and 12.

2. Advanced Sustainability Research and Action

In this one-year physical science course, students use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to explore scientific investigations that have relevance in our community. Open to students in grade 12.

3. Climate and Society

This one semester elective teaches students to explore the concept of climate change, its effect on society, and how society contributes to climate change. Through their education, they will spread the news and educate others on how to slow down carbon emissions by taking actions in conserving our resources – both locally and throughout the world.

4. Forensics

This one semester elective is designed to have students working in teams to solve crime scenarios using scientific knowledge and reasoning that are based on real events. This course integrates all areas of science including biology, anatomy, chemistry, physics, and environmental science with an emphasis on complex reasoning and logic.

5. Engineering

This course gives young scholars an introduction to engineering through a series of assignments, hands-on design projects, and guest presenters. Students learn about and use the design process to design, build, test, and redesign various products. As they go, students explore areas of civil, mechanical, chemical, biomedical, and computer/electrical engineering. Students also consider how engineering can improve the quality of our lives and of the environment in which we live.

6. Marine Science

This elective focuses on specific marine ecosystems, including coastlines, estuaries, marshes, coral reefs, and the open ocean, culminating in a study of current events and the human footprint on our ocean life. This class combines the studies of biological, physical, and chemical aspects of the marine environments, as well as the social forces that impact this priceless resource.

7. Food Systems

Food systems are one of the hottest social science topics facing the world today. Students will explore genetically modified organisms (GMOs), sustainable farming and economics of food. Additionally, students will learn about issues related to food quality and accessibility. This course applies hands-on activities that produce nutritious food using technologies such as aquaculture, hydroponics, greenhouses, and green-roof gardens. This classroom and lab course takes on an interdisciplinary approach to explore how food is connected to health, justice, and the environment.

Connecticut River Academy is the high school for teenagers interested in science and sustainability. Through the curriculum, students are given the opportunity to use state-of-the-art technology and laboratories. We take the classroom outdoors and allow students to learn through experience. In fact, CTRA is based right along the Connecticut River, so students are constantly conducting research projects outside in its watershed area. Students also have the opportunity to board our very own research vessel, used for water ecology studies.

While there is a strong science focus in its curriculum, Connecticut River Academy is, of course, a comprehensive high school, covering the full range of courses in English, social studies, mathematics, and world language, as well as the arts, physical education, and health. All courses are designed with students at the center of the action and with the mission of offering all students competence and confidence to be successful in college, career, and beyond.

In fact, Connecticut River Academy offers an early college model for students. Teens can pursue their interests in the sciences, and in sustainability, and take college-level courses within these subjects. They are given the opportunity to earn up to 35 tuition-free, transferable college credits while in high school – kickstarting their college career! The credits earned in this early college high school can be applied to any degree program after graduation.

The future is bright for your science-loving student, and with the right program – the possibilities are endless! If you would like to learn more about the curriculum at Connecticut River Academy, click here to sign up for a Virtual Information Session.