STEM

2025-2026 Program

This opportunity will be open to students entering grade 9 and grade 10 in the 2025 – 2026 school year.

Students entering grade 10 will need to have met the eligibility criteria for their grade 9 year.

Families will be notified as of September 2025 that their STEM Certificate registration has been confirmed.

Program Requirements

Courses

• Minimum of any 4 courses in Science - all pathways
• Minimum of any 4 courses in Mathematics - all pathways
• Minimum of any 3 courses in Technology and/or Computer Studies - all pathways

Clubs and Contests

(Minimum of 3 of the following per school year)

• Active membership in at least one STEM related club (e.g. Robotics, Computer Science, Chemistry, Doctors of Tomorrow, Biology, Hackers, STEM Initiative Council, EcoTEAM, PC Builders, AV Club, Peer Tutoring in STEM subjects)
• Completion of at least one contest/competition (e.g. AP exams; UofT Biology Contest; University of Waterloo Math, Science, Computer Contests/Exams/Competitions/Challenges; Skills Competitions; Hackathon; Real World Design Challenge)

Community Engagement

(Participation at a minimum of 2 of the following prior to graduation)

• STEM workshop for an elementary school
• Science demonstration at Grade 8 Curriculum Night
• STEM booth at a community fair or library
• Volunteer hours completed for an approved non-profit STEM related event/organization
• Guest lecture by a STEM professional
• Specialized STEM skills training opportunity
• University-hosted STEM conference
• STEM Summer Camp/Enrichment

Benefits

Students working toward a STEM Certification will maintain an academic focus in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics related courses.

This academic focus will be complemented by an extra-curricular focus where students’ academic knowledge can be applied in a variety of contexts. Students will develop collaboration and innovation skills while also learning about citizen science, digital citizenship, conservation, sustainability, and ethical standards.

By participating in STEM courses and related clubs, contests, competitions, and community engagement, students will develop the 21 century competencies required for their resumes and post-secondary applications. This certification is designed to engage students who are considering STEM related careers. Students in all pathways are invited to participate in this exciting experience that will prepare them for the challenges beyond high school.

Result

Students who complete all requirements at the end of their high school career will be granted a Thornlea Secondary School STEM certificate at graduation.