STEM
Header Image
STEM education is an interdisciplinary approach to learning where rigorous academic concepts are coupled with real-world lessons; students apply science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in contexts that make connections between school, community, work, and the global enterprise enabling the development of STEM literacy and with it the ability to compete in the new economy. (Tsupros, 2009)
The Academy of the Holy Cross embraces the role that science, technology, engineering, and mathematics plays in our students’ education. As new and emerging technologies make vast amounts of information available, there is a need for creating open learning environments that can engage learners in active, intentional, and cooperative learning.
Science
Students who study science can make informed decisions, are able to ask thoughtful questions, and can clearly communicate those questions and findings to those around them. Holy Cross Students come in contact with multiple science experiences that nurture and foster an increased curiosity and understanding of what they observe and investigate. They advance their ability to offer reasonable explanations, make predictions, and learn to respect nature and their environment. Science strengthens the skills they need to think effectively, objectively, and creatively. Whether in the life or physical sciences, students are challenged to apply scientific skills to real-world problems.
Technology
The Academy strongly believes integration of technology into our existing curriculum is a vital component for student achievement. Our commitment to technology ensures that all students are proficient in digital literacy. To cultivate and support effective information users, the Technology Department collaborates with students and faculty in an inquiry-based environment providing resources, strategies, and tools so that everyone will have the necessary skills to locate, evaluate, and integrate information.
Our Student Technology Center includes a computer lab, design technology classroom with a 3-D printer and 3-D pens, and a collaborative tech area for student use.
The Student Tech Team serves as technology leaders in the school producing "how-to" guides, organizing and managing an iPad help desk and maintaining social media guidelines for their peers.
Engineering
Project Lead the Way empowers students to step into the role of an engineer and adapt a problem-solving mindset. The program engages students in collaborative, real-world activities As students work together to design and develop solutions to local and global challenges, they engage in problem-solving strategies and critical and creative thinking. Our Engineering classroom is designed to be flexible, adaptable, and mobile to accommodate the learning environment. The Academy offers Introduction to Engineering and Principals of Engineering.
Girls who pass the year-end exam will earn three college credits from Rochester Institute of Technology for each PLTW course.
Math
Holy Cross is committed to providing a curriculum in mathematics enabling each girl to attain success at her highest potential level of achievement by offering a variety of courses. The aim is to build a solid foundation in mathematics in each student by developing her sense of numeracy and her appreciation for the many applications of mathematics in all aspects of her life. Students are expected to strive for mastery of concepts as well as to attain the skill to apply those concepts accurately. From Algebra I through Multi-Variable Calculus, critical thinking skills are emphasized throughout the curriculum. Students are supported in their endeavors by the faculty through Math Lab, regularly scheduled help sessions outside of class.
STEM at Holy Cross
Science
- College Prep Science
- AP Biology
- AP Physics C: Mechanics
Technology
- College Prep Technology
- PLTW-AP Computer Science Principles
- Intro to Programming
- Multimedia Journalism
- Adobe Web Design
Engineering
- Project Lead the Way
- PLTW Intro to Engineering
- PLTW Principles of Engineering
- PLTW-AP Computer Science Principles
Math
- College Prep Math
- AP Calculus AB
- AP Calculus BC
- AP Statistics
- UMD Math Competition
- Multivariable Calculus
STEM Related Extra Curricular Activities
Vex Robotics
Beginning in 2016, Holy Cross launched a robotics team, "AHC Transformers," which competes at the local and national level.
Environmental Club
Students explore the issues of conservancy and practical applications of nature study. Students participate in hands-on conservation work and discuss current policy issues.
Science Alliance
In this science club, students work on experiments and projects that enhance their class curriculum.
Science Honor Society
Science National Honor Society Mother Angela (Gillespie), CSC Chapter was founded in 2000 to encourage and recognize scientific and intellectual thought, advance students’ knowledge of classical and modern science, communicate with the scientific community, aid the civic community with its comprehension of science, and to encourage students to participate in community service and in turn, encourage a dedication to the pursuit of scientific knowledge that benefits all of mankind.