STEM

Students admitted into the STEM ACADEMY will take at least 4 STEM electives during their high school career. These STEM electives are courses that expose students to STEM topics and the skills/understanding to continue into higher level, focused STEM courses and/or a post-secondary degree in a STEM major. Students are always encouraged to look at electives offered by the Career Center or WCCC in addition to offerings at CHS. In addition to the recommended course of study that includes STEM electives, STEM ACADEMY students will have the opportunity to:

• Specialize in math, science, or humanities coursework, including Advanced Placement offerings. STEM ACADEMY students will be required to complete between 6 and 8 AP courses, and will be considered AP Scholars and recognized at graduation. 

• Take a minimum of 4 STEM electives throughout their careers at Central.

• Compile an electronic portfolio of STEM PROJECT artifacts that can be shared with colleges.

• Complete a senior STEM CAPSTONE PROJECT under the supervision of a STEM teacher and in conjunction with a community partner. Completers will also present these projects to a large audience and be distinguished at graduation.

• Participate in extracurricular activities and be encouraged to start unique clubs based on student interests.

Central High School believes in students just wanting to enter the workforce and offers a wide variety of opportunities to prepare students. This includes a strong collaboration with the Career Technical Education Department offering over 30 industry-advised classes to create connections to develop professional skills. 

Career-bound students also have access to Job Shadowing, Internships, and Site Visits to help build industry connections and access to earn industry credentials free of charge. Check our Career Technical Education page to learn more about what we offer with associated classes and career pathways. 

That middle ground for students not yet set on a traditional college experience and those wanting to enter a specialized workforce or trade. The PTECH (Pathways in Technology Early College Graduation) Model was started by IBM trying to fill a need for employees in fields with high demand. 

Warrior Way PTECH is a seamless program for students to earn their high school diploma and an industry-recognized associate degree through relevant work experiences in growing industries and a partnership with our very own Colorado Mesa University Technical College. 

CHS PTECH offers the following degree pathways through CMU Tech.

• Mechanical Engineering Technician

• Mechatronics

• Pharmacy Technician

• Welding

• Machining and Manufacturing Technology

• Fire Science

• Construction Electrical

• Land Surveying and Geomatics

• Early Childhood Education

• Electrical Line Worker

• Construction Technology

Students must meet or exceed to following criteria to earn this level of diploma. 

• 3.5+ GPA

• 4+ STEM Courses (Listed in our Academics Tab)

• 600+ SAT Math score

• Capstone Project

• D51 minimum graduation requirements

Students must meet the following minimum criteria to earn a D51 STEM diploma. 

• 3.0+ GPA

• 4+ STEM Courses (Listed in our Academics Tab)

• 550+ SAT Math score

• Capstone Project

• D51 minimum graduation requirements

Students must meet the following minimum criteria to earn a Central High School STEM diploma. 

• 4+ STEM Courses (Listed in our Academics Tab)

• 1+ STEM Letter

• Capstone Project

• D51 minimum graduation requirements