STEM Distinctive

In theory, it may be possible to complete the requirements for two or more programs. However, the 4 weeks of work experience and 20 hours of job shadowing would be required for each Distinctive. It is not recommended to try to complete more than one because of the additional time required.

Declaration of intent to complete a Distinctive program needs to be made before a student’s junior year of high school. New students who come in after this point may still be eligible depending on coursework completed elsewhere.

There is a simple application form that is used to initiate the tracking process which will ensure that the student remains on track to meet the requirements. Students will not be turned away from attempting to complete the requirements.

A Distinctive program can help in two primary ways. First, it challenges students to explore a specific area of interest in greater depth, pushing them to grow academically and to gain real-world experience in that field. Second, this level of interest and increased participation in a specific field will be appealing to future university programs. Many students already follow coursework progressions similar to what is outlined in these Distinctives – we want to make sure we recognize these students for their hard work!

No, this is already part of our school program and does not cost anything extra.

Students who declare an ACA Distinctive will be given course entrance priority as long as courses are requested within the Priority Course Request dates and course prerequisites and corequisites are met.