STEM/STEAM
Combining the disciplines of Science, Technology, Engineering, Creativity and Math (STEAM), STA fosters creative problem solving and critical thinking in our students.
Setting the Pace
STA was the second all-girls’ high school in the U.S. and the second school in the bi-state area to earn STEM Certification (formerly AdvancED Certification) for Excellence in STEM education. This achievement is a mark of distinction and excellence offered only to highly effective institutions that recognize STEM education as a path to success.
STA maintains its STEM certification through Cognia, a nonprofit organization laser-focused on improving educational opportunities for all learners. STA is also a proud member of The National Consortium of Secondary STEM Schools (NCSSS).
In addition to coursework, students can join the Full STEAM Ahead extracurricular program and the Makerspace Mentors club.
Program Highlights
2023-2024
- Voted “Best High School” in Kansas City
- Cognia “100 years of Accreditation” Award
- Missouri Green Schools Sprout Award
- AP Gold Honor Roll Award
- Almost half of the Interim Week courses provided a STEM/STEAM-focus
2022-2023
- CompTIA Authorized Partner Program Certificate
- Esports thletic team founded
- Innovative immersive travel experiences, including four STEM/STEAM-based experiences
2021-2022
- Battle of the Brains Competition Top 20 Finalist
- Apiary founded – only school in the Kansas City area and will serve as a model for others
- UMKC Vanguard Award Recipient for STEM Outreach Partner of the Year an individual, organization or company that has demonstrated exemplary support for K-12 STEM initiatives
Cognia is a nonprofit organization that helps educators improve school quality through accreditation, assessment, professional learning, and customized services. Through Cognia Accreditation, STA leverages our strengths for improvement.
STA is also Cognia STEM certified for providing programs that demonstrate a strong and effective STEM focus.
The National Consortium of Secondary STEM Schools (NCSSS) was established in 1988 to provide a forum for specialized secondary schools focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines to exchange information and program ideas.
Celebrating our 30th anniversary in 2018, the Consortium now includes approximately 80 member schools (high schools), many ‘ranked’ as the best in the country, along with 30 affiliate members (colleges, universities, foundations, and summer programs) located in 32 states, that share the goals of transforming mathematics, science, and technology education. The Consortium has expanded membership in 2016 to include international members and corporate members.
The STEM/STEAM Certificate acknowledges students for their achievements and involvement in STEAM-related activities. This is a multi-year effort that focuses on several academic subject areas and community learning. The program is designed to provide preparation and opportunities related to STEM/STEAM fields in and beyond the typical classroom day. Students completing the Certificate will receive special recognition in the commencement program as well as documentation on their transcript.
Applications are due spring semester of sophomore year through Marzo of junior year.
Contact Mandi Sonnenberg, EdD, Director of STEAM Projects & Education, with questions.
