The STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Institute at the Newton College and Career Academy will soon begin its application process.

The STEM Institute is now accepting applications for the 2014-15 school year from current eighth-grade students in the Newton County School System whose parents or guardians are residents of Newton County. The STEM Institute at the career academy recruits rising freshmen who have a strong desire to reach their highest potential in academics.

Application packets are posted on the NCSS website at, newtoncountyschools.org. Those interested in applying should submit a completed application packet by the end of the school day Feb. 28.

In the packet, students will find four evaluation forms — one for a counselor, one for an eighth-grade STEM field elective teacher, one for an an eighth-grade mathematics teacher, and one for an eighth-grade science teacher to fill out for the applicant. The students must also supply one letter of recommendation from someone who knows the applicant (not a relative) outside of the academic arena who can provide information about the applicant’s maturity, qualifications, character, dependability, and work ethic.

Recommendations may be submitted under separate cover to allow for confidentiality and openness of response and commentary. First-semester transcripts should also be provided.

Applications may be completed electronically and submitted by email to Lynn House at: house.lynn@newton.k12.ga.us or delivered to each student’s middle school counselor.

School system officials said the STEM program, initiated in August 2013, will add one grade level each year. The program is designed to serve students from diverse backgrounds by providing support for them to become college and career ready. Classes are taught by highly qualified instructors who receive extensive training and ongoing support in their content area.

Parents and students interested in learning more about the STEM Institute are invited to attend an open house at the career academy, 144 Ram Drive, at 6 p.m. Feb. 11.

Students will be identified as possible candidates based on multiple criteria including the effective completion of the application, including an essay; longitudinal data exemplifying strength and interest in STEM fields; teacher recommendations; and STEM team interview feedback, following an initial application review.

Final selections, including wait-list, notifications will be mailed to parents and/or guardians by the end of April. For additional information about the STEM Institute, contact Grenetta Turner at turner.grenetta@newton.k12.ga.us or Lynn House at house.lynn@newton.k12.ga.us.