Security-Widefield, CO - For many people, the beginning of a new year brings thoughts of how to improve the future, whether it be improving one’s health, plans of travel, or possibly striving for advancement at work.  For school children, this is a fantastic time for both kids and their parents to begin thinking about education goals.  Soon, students in both high school and junior high will need to choose what courses they’ll be taking in the 2026-2027 school year.  Widefield School District 3 offers a variety of STEM courses (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) that provide both an incredible learning experience and an opportunity to explore future career opportunities.

Junior High: A Chance for Exploration

STEM courses have moved far beyond just biology and physics.  Thanks to the many dedicated teachers and administrators, along with the use of grant funded technology and supplies, schools are able to offer courses that dive deeper into the possible applications that a career in STEM can provide.  At the junior high level, students can explore eco-friendly and sustainable solutions in the field of architecture and construction and eventually design their own housing units in the Green Architecture class.  For kids interested in a future in the healthcare or medical support fields, the Medical Detectives course challenges students to solve medical mysteries through analysis, labs, and understanding of biology and disease.  For children interested in video gaming, courses such as Game Design and App Creators introduce the basics of programming and design, and demonstrate the necessity of a firm grasp of math and science concepts.

High School: Embarking on Paths to Future Endeavors

For high school students, STEM courses become more focused and in-depth, allowing kids to begin exploring possible career choices and learn about industries and technologies that they may not have been aware of.  Students interested in engineering and design can start with Principles of Engineering to learn the basics of what possibilities the field provides, and then move on to more specified courses such as Aerospace Engineering, Robotics, or Design and Development.  Computer Science courses, like Cybersecurity or Computer Aided Drafting, provide instruction on how to create and problem solve through programming technology.  Future healthcare providers can begin learning about clinical medicine and lab research in Human Body Systems, or delve into the future of medical care in Biomedical Innovations.  Course progression tracks can be viewed on the WSD3 STEM Pathways website.

Why Enter the STEM Fields?

STEM careers have always paved the way for the future, designing and developing solutions to some of our most pressing medical, environmental, and technological issues.  As our world grows and changes, the demand for these professionals has only increased.  There are abundant career opportunities throughout the country and around the globe, offering excitement, the possibility to travel, and the chance to truly change the world.  In addition, salaries within the STEM fields average significantly higher than non-STEM careers, with a national average around $128,000.  As with any career field, higher education degrees offer higher earning potential.

Registering for STEM Courses

Students will be receiving their course selection forms from their school during the last week of January.  High schools will be offering advisory meetings shortly after the forms are distributed in order to discuss options and requirements with the students, as well as to walk them through the scheduling process in Infinite Campus.  Kids will then have two weeks to decide on their 2026-2027 school year courses.  Students are highly encouraged to speak to their parents or guardians, teachers, and counselors during this time about their future goals and what courses would serve them best.  A list of the STEM courses offered for both the junior high and high schools is posted on the WSD3 STEM website.  Final decisions must be made and submitted via Infinite Campus.  Junior high administration will be working with students in the fourth quarter to arrange course schedules.  Schools will provide the cutoff date for registration.  If students or parents and guardians have any questions or issues during this time, they are urged to reach out to their school advisory counselor for assistance.