At Laura Jeffrey Academy, our scholars are more than just students; they're STEM superstars in the making! But what does being a STEM superstar really mean? Does it automatically set your student on a path toward a career in mechanical engineering or software development? Well, yes... and so much more!

The Minnesota Department of Education defines STEM education as “intentionally designed and linked learning experiences for students to develop and apply understandings of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics concepts and processes.” But here at LJA, it's more than a definition—it's a hands-on, minds-on approach that goes beyond the conventional classroom experience.

We're dedicated to ensuring our middle school scholars aren't learning in a vacuum. At LJA, STEM education isn't just about memorizing equations or solving problems on paper. Our students learn how to apply what they've learned to real-world situations. They develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills that will not only serve them well in their academics but will also be valuable tools in their careers and everyday lives. Our guiding STEM principles include:

• Nurturing curiosity and wonderment

• Developing the critical thinking skills of identifying, analyzing and using evidence to inform knowledge

• Becoming resilient problem solvers and innovative thinkers

• Applying STEM thinking in and out of the classroom
  The best part about STEM learning is that it unlocks areas where imagination knows no bounds and creativity reigns supreme. Today, we’re looking at some unique or even quirky careers that a STEM education can unlock.

Bio-Artists: Where Science Meets Canvas

Ever thought about blending biology with art? Bio-artists use living organisms to create mind-blowing works of art. Imagine painting with living moss or blowing up microscopic photos of bacteria into beautiful works of art. It's a canvas of creativity fueled by the wonders of biology.

Flavor Chemists: Crafting the Tastiest Experiments

For all the foodies out there, did you know there are scientists who specialize in making your favorite snacks taste oh-so-amazing? Flavor chemists use their STEM skills to concoct delicious combinations, turning taste buds into tiny explosions of joy. This career isn’t just about making things taste good—it can also help people. From helping people stomach unpleasant medications to inspiring an appetite in those with illness, this career is definitely one to consider.

Zoological Illustrators: Sketching Science into Life

Love art and animals? Zoological illustrators bring scientific illustrations to life. They use their artistic talents to capture the intricacies of plants, animals, and ecosystems, making science visually enchanting. Or, bring your knowledge to the big screen through animation, helping students across the world connect with natural wonders. 

Robot Companionship Engineers: Friends with Bolts and Nuts

Who says robots are just for heavy industries? Some STEM enthusiasts are creating robots designed to be our companions. Picture a robot sidekick that's part friend, part personal assistant. It's like having a high-tech BFF! Also, wearable technology is huge, and we know LJA students already have amazing ideas on the tech they wish they had. Instead of wishing—they can learn to make it themselves!

Aquatic Acousticians: Jamming with the Dolphins

Love music and the ocean? Aquatic acousticians study underwater sounds, working with marine life and using their findings to create music inspired by the sea. It's like composing symphonies with dolphins as your instrument! And, hydroacoustics has many exciting possibilities, from identifying underwater phenomena to developing early warning systems for volcanic activity. 

Scent Designers: Crafting Fragrances with Chemistry

STEM meets style in the world of scent design. Using chemistry, scent designers create unique fragrances for perfumes, candles, and everyday products. Us? We’re patiently waiting for the first LJA scholar to invent smell-o-vision.

Color Forecasters: Predicting the Palette of the Future

Have a knack for predicting trends? Color forecasters use science and art to predict the color trends for industries like fashion, home decor, and design. If your scholar loves to stay on top of viral trends, they can turn their passion into data-backed knowledge and expertise.

LEGO Master Builders: Building Dreams Brick by Brick

Yes, you read that right! Some STEM enthusiasts become LEGO Master Builders. They use engineering principles and creativity to design and build epic LEGO structures. It's a world where play and STEM collide in the most awesome way. If LEGO bricks aren’t their thing, there are plenty of other amazing things they can design and build—city planning, landscape design, rollercoaster engineering—if they can dream it, they can do it.

These fun and quirky careers prove that STEM education can unlock doors to a world of possibilities, from the canvas to the lab and beyond. The only limit is imagination! And here's the magic: middle school, especially here at LJA, is where these STEM superstars discover their passions and interests. It's a time of exploration, curiosity, and joyous learning. STEM education in middle school becomes the compass that helps our students navigate their interests and loves before they head out to high school and beyond. There’s no wrong answer when it comes to our scholar’s interests and passions. At LJA, we help all our scholars to think, dream, and do!