E3 STEM

While enrolled in E³ STEM you will have more opportunities to explore STEM careers than there are days that we are in school. These experiences happen in field trips, career counseling, 1 on 1 with business professionals, college tours, clubs & activities, job shadowing & internship possibilities, and more! 

 

Education is the base of what we do at AVHS. While all students can take the following courses due to our STEM For All philosophy, these courses play directly with how our students explore future employment opportunities. taking one or all of these courses would help shape a student to be comfortable in all aspects of a STEM education - and they are all offered at AVHS! Here is a sample of STEM courses offered at AVHS:

Certified Nursing Assistants are in high demand and provide entry into all aspects of health care. Through hands-on and laboratory experience, students will understand the role of a nursing assistant, develop the skills to address patients’ basic needs and apply their skills in a clinical setting. Students taking this course will take both the written and skills exam to become a Certified Nursing Assistants on the Minnesota Department of Health Nursing Registry. • Students successfully completing Certified Nursing Assistant may have the opportunity to earn college credit from a post-secondary institution.  There are openings for the trimester 2 sections offered at the School of Environmental Studies. This course is open to juniors and seniors.  There are also openings for the sections offered in trimester 3 at Apple Valley High School. This is a 2-period block class.  Make an appointment with your counselor to discuss this option and see if you can work this into your schedule for this year or possibly next year if you are a junior.  

Drone Construction, Modification and Flight 3005 + Advanced Drone Construction 3050
As the uses of drones continue to grow in society, this course will allow students to create and design their own drones through the use of our International Fabrication Lab and E3STEM program. The Advanced Drone Construction course builds on the skills developed in Drone Construction. This class will focus on building, modifying, and flying brushless motored drones which are modified through student coding. Students will go beyond simply flying drones, learning the open firmware built into the drone, allowing for modifications through coding.

Mobile Apps Development F-3660, W-3661, S-3662
The Mobile Applications Development Computer Science course is a class in which students will learn another programming language, explore Graphical User Interfaces (GUI), and create applications for general use. This course is designed to provide students with a real-life experience in the full evolution of Application Development: conception, definition, creation, testing, deployment, and support. Students will learn the Objective C programming language and the Xcode Integrated Development Environment tool set. There will be a focus on the Graphical User Interface for the iPad, iPhone and Mac platforms. This course will require students to find a working professional (the User) who needs an Application developed. Students will design an App which meets the requirements of the User and get agreement that the design meets the requirements of the User. Finally, the student will implement, test and deliver the App to the User. The first trimester will focus on learning the new language and development tool set. The second and third trimesters will focus on specifications, design, development, testing and delivery of the Application by a team of students.

College Linear Algebra and Differential Equations (CLA/Diff Eq) F-3657, W-3658, S-3659
This course is an introduction to college linear algebra and to differential equations and is intended for students who have successfully completed Calculus BC or an equivalent course. Linear Algebra topics include systems of linear equations, matrices, determinants, vector spaces, linear transformations and eigenvalues, eigenvectors, etc. Selected applications and use of technology will be included. Coverage in the area of differential equations includes basic definitions, ideas, and terminology of ordinary differential equations, as well as problem-solving techniques. Specific topics covered include solutions and applications of first-order differential equations, solutions of linear differential equations of higher order, second-order differential equations, and systems of linear differential equations.

Fab Lab Essentials 3001
Explore the Fab Lab and learn how to create, design, and produce various products. This course will be an introduction to the 2D, 3D, and CNC-controlled machines in the Fab Lab. Students will also be introduced to the design process and documentation used in engineering-related fields. Students will be expected to complete rudimentary tasks necessary for the basic operation of the Fab Lab equipment. Basic hands-on projects will be designed and created throughout the course to demonstrate mastery of the equipment operations.

Choreography & Media F-4241, W-4242, S-4243 (Full Year)
Choreography and Media is a fast-paced intermediate-level course that distinguishes the AVHS dance
department from all other programs in the state. It expands upon the dance techniques of Modern, Jazz,
Hip Hop, and more including a strong focus on choreography skills and group collaboration. Students will
also study different multi-media programs as they relate to dance such as Garageband, iMovie, the Google
Suite, and more. Students will infuse a variety of techniques and creative skills into their choreography
through the use of props, video projections, music editing, and video making. Group work, historical
research, collaboration skills, self-discipline, and self-motivation are crucial for this class.

College in the Schools (CIS) - Human Physiology, Technology and Medical Devices F-5064, W-5065, S-5066
CIS Human Physiology, Technology and Medical Devices is a year-long course. The course is the study of the
organization, structure, function, and interrelationships of the major systems of the human body and their response to disease. This course is a lab and activity-based course (including dissections) that requires memorization, reading, and note-taking skills. This college-credit course is recommended for students with an interest in pursuing a medically oriented or health career. The fall trimester covers body orientation and nomenclature, histology, the integumentary system, bones, the skeletal system, and joints. The winter trimester covers muscle anatomy and physiology. The spring trimester covers the nervous system, blood, and the cardiovascular system. This course uses a college-level textbook.

Unified Physical Education 4650
In this course, General Education and Adapted Physical Education students will learn and work together. Students will support one another while learning the knowledge and skills to maintain a health-enhancing lifestyle of physical activity and fitness. Students will participate and learn to make modifications by playing basketball, kickball, softball, soccer, floor hockey and volleyball. They will also work cooperatively on strength training, fitness testing, biking and scooter activities. Through ongoing leadership opportunities, students will also be empowered to create a more inclusive and accepting school environment for all students.

Being a part of E3 STEM will automatically allow you to network with professionals in the field. By bringing in our extensive list of business partners to do informational interviews, our students get to meet with people who are potentially their colleagues in the future and have honest conversations about their work. This program also offers job shadowing with local businesses and internships to students ready to participate in their school day and get immersed in the fields they love. While we cannot guarantee that students will get hired right out of the program, our partners notice this experience when seeing it on a resume they are considering! Get a head start right out of high school by joining the E3 STEM program at AVHS.

Exploration and education are two big pieces in the STEM path, but the most important one may be getting employment in your chosen field. With the E3 STEM program, we are committed to helping our students get hired right out of high school or have the experience needed to find work while pursuing a higher education degree. It is important to remember that both experience and education are essential to employers! We prepare our students in many ways as they approach graduation, and here is the layout of one of them - Get Hired Workshops:

Professional Behavior and Attire - Students learn understand appropriate workplace behavior and dress. In this workshop, students will:

• Describe professional behavior.
• Discuss and assess communication skills appropriate/not appropriate for the workplace.
• Identify appropriate times and uses of technology.
• Compare and contrast different occupations and professional attire related to the occupations.
• Define time management in relation to the work setting.

Cover Letter, Resume, and Thank You Letter Writing - Students develop understanding the importance of well composed cover letters, resumes, and thank you letters relevant to specific occupations. In this workshop, students will:

• Identify exemplary letters and resumes.
• Discuss and prepare different letters and resumes.
• Evaluate and provide feedback on letters and resumes composed by classmates.
• Explain formats, effective wording, length, and time of completion.

Interviews - Students learn to understand types of interviews, how to prepare their interview skills, be critiqued, and provide constructive feedback to classmates. In this workshop, students will:

• Identify different types of interviews.
• Explain different interviews, appropriate behavior and attire.
• Prepare for and practice different styles of interviews.
• Critique classmates via live observation and videotaped interviews.
• Evaluate self through watching taped interviews.

Panel Presentation and Discussion - Listen to a panel of experts on the dos/don'ts of presenting self through letters, resumes, and the interview process. There will be time for questions and one-one work with panelists to provide feedback on letters and videos. In this workshop, students will:

• Review job search process with experts in the field.
• Incorporate panelists’ input into draft letters and resumes.
• Break down practice interviews and continue to refine skills.

After submitting the Permission Form (below), we will connect with the student for an introductory session shortly after.  At this meeting they will learn everything about the program and what it offers beyond what is listed on this page. At this point students can choose to officially join - and they all do!

The student will be added to our different messaging groups to be informed about everything that is happening in the program. Parents of the students will receive weekly emails about what their students can do in the next week in E3 STEM to be able work with their students in shaping their experience.

Other than being enrolled at AVHS there are no specific requirements other than that E³ STEM students are interested in any science, technology, engineering and math career field.

Are you inquisitive and curious about the world around you? You’ll be an ideal E³ STEM student. E³ STEM is about exploration and education. Through your time at AVHS we will help refine what your interests are and help you to succeed in your future field. Get a head start in your career in the E³ STEM Program!

When you are ready to sign up, fill out this form to get registered for E3 STEM at AVHS

---

 

Upcoming Program Dates:  

Check back next school year for important opportunities!

 

Check back next school year for new job opportunities!

Cybersecurity:

• Careers in cybersecurity - https://cybersecurityguide.org/careers/
• Online Cybersecurity - https://www.onlinecybersecurity.org/
• Ethical hacking guide - https://cybersecurityguide.org/resources/ethical-hacker/
• How to get into cybersecurity - https://cybersecurityguide.org/resources/how-to-get-into-cybersecurity/
• Cybersecurity jobs guide - https://cybersecurityguide.org/resources/cybersecurity-jobs/

Cyber Security Education Guide: Cyber security professionals, or information security analysts, have a wide range of responsibilities, but the crux of their job is to protect online data form being compromised. As more of our personal information is stored online, the more important it becomes to step up security.

FIRST Robotics: Explore various STEM careers in this fun, competitive program. Consider joining our Knights of the Valley team.  FIRST Robotics team members are eligible for a wide variety of college scholarships. Contact Mr. Lynch in B109 or through Schoology to learn more.  

Math Team: The math team competes in the Minnesota State High School Math League. Our season runs from October through mid-February. Talk to your Math teacher about this program. 

Science Olympiad: The Science Olympiad program is the premier team STEM competition in the nation, providing standards-based challenges to 6,300 teams at 425 tournaments in all 50 states. Talk to your science teachers about this program. 

HOSA Future Health Professionals: HOSA is a global student-led organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, Health and Human Services, and several federal and state agencies. HOSA’s mission is to empower HOSA-Future Health Professionals to become leaders in the global health community through education, collaboration, and experience. Main HOSA events: Fall Leadership Conference, MRC Camp, Mid-Winter Competition, Spring Leadership Conference.  Contact Mr. Lynch in B109 or through Schoology to learn more.  

ACE Mentor Program: The ACE Mentor Program is open to any high school student curious and driven to learn about a design and construction management career, from contracting and engineering to architecture and landscaping. The ACE team will be presented with a design challenge. Mentors will support them in creating a design and construction plan. The ACE season ends in a competition in March. ACE will begin at AVHS in October. Contact Mr. Lynch in B109 or through Schoology to learn more.  

Career Coaching: This will include a Simple activity allowing students to identify their top core values.  These values are critical in guiding people as they identify career fields that are the best fit for them. 

• reviewing your high school classes and credits
• discussing post-high school plans
• looking at your strengths and interests and how those might apply to a potential career

We will also look at the various opportunities through STEM that will enhance your job readiness and resume, plus help analyze any possible barriers that may stand in your path and look at ways in which those can be overcome.

In addition to your school counselor, you might also meet with Mr. Lynch or one of our career coaches for coaching sessions.  You could make an appointment with any one of us over Schoology.  To make an appointment with your school counselor, stop by the student services office to set something up or call 952-431-8218.  

RESOURCES:

Naviance:  Contains Supermatch college search/selection system.  Click HERE to access.  Your username is your school email address (____ID#____@apps.district196.org).  Use the same password you used to log in to Schoology & Collab.  

Traitify Personality Assessment – The Dakota-Scott Workforce Development Board procured Traitify for use by residents of Dakota and Scott counties. Traitify is a visual personality assessment tool recommending careers, jobs, and education based on personality and preference data. Users swipe through a short series of images, answering “Me” or “Not Me” to generate individualized results in about 90 seconds. It’s accurate, fast, free, and fun. Take the survey here!

SkillPointe: Skills quiz to help you identify career fields that match your skills. 

High 5 Strengths Test: Free test to determine your top 5 strengths and how they might apply to future career fields. Access test HERE.

Value Sort Activity:  During your sessions, you will discuss all aspects of your potential educational pathways leading to a promising career match. Complete the activity HERE.  

Minnesota Career Fields, Clusters, Pathway Diagram – Match your career interests, strengths, and values to careers on this diagram.

---

OTHER Resources: 

CODE U: Code U is an online workshop designed to guide high school students in exploring health careers and preparing for college. Code U is produced by the Pre-Health Student Resource Center at the University of Minnesota.

STEM Career Aptitude Quiz: This quiz will determine which career areas best fit you. 

MyNextMove – Career exploration tool allows you to explore careers in various ways. It also contains access to an interest profile tool to help you better identify what you want to do for careers if you are unsure. 

 GetMyFuture –  Career Exploration System Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Healthcare Career Exploration Websites: You may be interested in healthcare — but not quite sure what specific job or educational path you’d like to pursue. Here are two sites that can help: CareerWise and HealthCarePathway.

  Career videos.  Learn more about various careers by viewing videos from professionals in these fields. 

BLS Career Outlook Information:  Resource to learn more about trends in career opportunities. 

 Skills Toolkit – Find the tool you need to research career information, training, or jobs.

Career and Educational Explorer: Career and Education Explorer allows students and others interested in a certain career field to review related job descriptions, education requirements, typical job titles, wages, hiring demand, and top industries. The tool merges the functions and data of two separate products, Career Profile and ISEEK, into a single entity.

2-Year Degree Career Examples: learn more about different types of careers that require a 2-year degree. This resource from ISG also lists what local colleges offer programs that will lead to those careers.

STEM Occupation Data Resource site:  Department of Labor Statistics site about STEM careers. 

O*net Online:  Great occupation exploration tool including career outlook tool. 

WIOA Dakota County Wanted Analytics & Jobs: Use this resources to find jobs and see what careers are highly sought in our area.

Learnability Quotient Assessment Tool – Technology is always changing and so is the workplace. Your Learnability Quotient (or LQ) reflects your desire and ability to grow and adapt to new circumstances and challenges throughout your work life.

College Search site: 

https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/college-search  

https://www.petersons.com/college-search.aspx

https://blog.prepscholar.com/the-best-college-search-websites

https://www.princetonreview.com/college-search

https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/

https://collegesofdistinction.com/advice/the-top-6-college-search-sites/

If interested, please also visit the following website to learn more about the conversations our executives had at the World Economic Forum around Learnability, the skills revolution and gender parity –  http://www.manpowergroup.com/wef2017.

SciGirls Stories: Real Women, Real Jobs: Inspiring real-life stories for all ages featuring Minnesota women in STEM careers (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). These are the innovators, problem-solvers and dreamers who live right next door, passionate about their work, hobbies, families and helping to make the world a better place. They motivate girls to pursue all kinds of interests and career paths.

SciGirls Women in STEM Videos:  Series of videos about women in a variety of STEM careers. 

Harvard Law To Allow Deferred Admissions, Hopes To Attract STEM Majors. The New York Times (5/3, Olson, Subscription Publication) reports that Harvard Law School announced Wednesday that it is “expanding a pilot program for Harvard undergraduates,” and will “allow juniors accepted from any college to defer admission as long as they finish college and spend at least two years working, studying or pursuing research or fellowships.” The program was started “to encourage students to gain work experience before entering law school and to encourage those studying science, technology, engineering or math to pursue the legal profession.” The Washington Post (5/3, Svrluga) reports that Harvard Law officials say they “particularly hope to lure students interested in science, technology, engineering and math fields to consider the law, since advanced technical knowledge and skills are in demand.” The piece quotes Associate Dean for Admissions and Strategic Initiatives Jessica Soban saying, “It’s incredibly valuable to have your attorney understand the underlying biology or the underlying coding systems or the underlying physics that are driving the legal questions.”Increasing Diversity In STEM Workforce Requires Greater Exposure Of Young People To STEM Jobs. Dr. Marcus Bright, political commentator and executive director of Education for a Better America, writes at Diverse Education (5/3, Bright), on the lack of diversity in the STEM workforce, which he attributes to “an inept outreach to HBCUs and other producers of qualified STEM workers” as well as “a lack of large numbers of people of color in the STEM pipeline.” He recommends “more exposure for students at the K-12 level” as a remedy, and as a means of making “the requisite math courses needed for many STEM careers more relevant to students.” In college, he says students in relevant fields of study need “consistent exposure to opportunities in the STEM economy.”

Check back next school year to see new Contest and Award Programs!

Join our STEM Scholarships Schoology Course. The access code is X82P-5PMP-BPGZW.  All scholarship information we gather is posted on this course. 

---

 

Scholarship search tools and lists of STEM scholarships: There are many scholarship search tools available to you on this list.  We continue to add scholarships to this Google document as we find them.  Check these out and those listed below. 

Scholarships for Black and African American STEM Majors: If you’re a minority student interested in finding free money to help you earn a degree in science, technology, engineering, or math, check out this list of organizations that offer scholarships for Black students in STEM.

15 Scholarships for Women in STEM: These scholarships can help minimize the cost of college and help female students pursue their dreams. Read below for the best STEM scholarships for female college students.