The Upper School Launches into New Frontiers

Over the two past years, we have introduced two new STEM courses that provide creative and challenging ways to engage our science-minded students. 

In 2023-2024, we added an option for students to participate in the Independent Science Research (ISR) program. This is a rigorous multi-year program designed for students who are interested in conducting original, collegiate-level science research under the guidance of a professional mentor. In the first year of ISR, students learn important research skills. As students advance through the program, they conduct their research projects, and write scientific research papers with the ultimate goal of presenting their research at a regional science competition. Currently, students are conducting research on topics such as replacing synthetic polymers with natural polymers in mascara formulations, the impact of Celiac Disease on college student experience, and the grandparent-grandchild relationship and its impact on adolescent physical health outlooks, among others.

This academic year, the Leffell School Space Program was created with the intention of launching a Leffell-produced satellite into space in the year 2028. During the first year, participating students engage in collaborative engineering projects designed to develop skills relevant to space exploration. In the following years, students will conceptualize, develop, construct, and test a miniature spacecraft. We are incredibly excited to be one of the first K-12 schools in the United States to offer a program in space studies that will culminate in an actual launch. Supported by the entire school community, this endeavor is representative of our communal values of teamwork, creativity, curiosity, ambition, and the boundless prospects of scientific exploration.