Science

Department Information
Science classes emphasize asking students to learn new information, make hypotheses based on what they have learned, and then, methodically gather information to test those hypothesis. Whether or not students pursue a science career, scientific literacy is important for all citizens in the modern world. With the opportunity to learn about many different specific areas of science, students can learn and apply scientific thinking across the different core disciplines of science. Additionally, there are a number of courses that offer college credit as part of successful course completion through both Advanced Placement tests as well as through dual-credit with Oakton Community College. From the freshman biology through the advanced placement science courses, students have the opportunity to work with highly qualified teachers in well-equipped laboratories. Safety awareness is stressed in all of our science courses.

Science Clubs and Activities

Environmental Club – Are you interested in nature and want to help improve our environment? Please see Mr. Bart Masellis about joining this club, which meets regularly after school all year long.

Engineering Club – Students in Engineering Club choose projects in areas that they would like to explore such as robotics, bridge-building, and the design of how things work.  The club participates in local contests and events, and also does career exploration activities in fields related to engineering. Contact Ms. Kay Wagner in room V123 before school for details about how you can join this club and participate.

Medical Careers Club – The purpose of the Medical Careers club is to explore and provide exposure to different careers in medicine, discuss current medical issues and to get first hand experience in the basics of medicine and medicine-related skills. The club meets monthly to solve case studies, learn from guest speakers and talk about post-high school pathways for medical careers. Please see Ms. Alexis Liakakos for more information.

Science National Honor Society – Students may apply to this prestigious society in their junior or senior year.  Throughout the year, members participate in various activities and events to promote science in the community, enhance their own science learning, and have fun with other students who enjoy science and see it as a potential field to study in the future.  See Ms. Chris Sayre for more details and an application.

Science Olympiad – Students on the Science Olympiad Team compete against other schools in a variety of events that cover all areas of science. Please contact Ms. Kay Wagner or Mr. Andrew Pisanko for details on how you can join this team and represent our school. You can also see the national Science Olympiad Website for further details about the competition and organization.

Astronomy Club – Students with an interest in astronomy and space science topics get together for star-gazing nights, scientific lectures on space, and other themed events to have fun and learn more about this area of interest.  Please see Mr. Tom Egan for information about how you can participate.

Practical Medicine Club – Students in this newly formed club are interested in the science of medicine and want to get hands-on with it.  Club activities may involve doing experiments that simulate medical studies.  Please see Ms. Kendra O’Halloran for more details.

Women in STEM Club – Open to students who identify as female, this club’s purpose is to explore career opportunities in the STEM fields.  Guest speakers from various professions are routinely featured at club meetings.  Please see Ms. Sarah Gaubatz for information about how you can participate.

Resources for Science Students

Do you need some extra help in science?  Mr. Schade and other science teachers are available each period to help you. You can come to the Academic Resource Center (ARC) before or during school hours at your convenience.  For after school support, please reach out to your science teacher for help during office hours.  Additionally, we have over 50 student volunteer peer tutors to help with science.  Peer tutors are available in the Academic Resource Center before, during, or after school.