The Academy of Science and Entrepreneurship is a high school in Bloomington, Indiana, United States which utilizes Project Based Learning. Opened in fall 2008 with a class size of 96 students, the school will serve students in 9th-12th grades, adding a class each year, with up to 100 students per grade. As of May 2009, the class of 2012 has 50-65 students. The school has a 1:1 student to computer ratio.
History
The Academy of Science and Entrepreneurship in Bloomington, Indiana is part of the larger New Tech Network, which includes over 100 schools across the United States. The school is funded through district funds, state grants, and community donations. The Academy building was originally the Rogers Building Supplies main building. It was renovated to become a school. In 2018, The Academy received STEM certification by the Indiana Department of Education. The New Tech model is characterized by three principles:
A new instructional approach that engages learners;
A culture that empowers students and teachers; and
Fully applied technology that supports deep learning.
The Academy also follows three main school norms - Trust, Respect, and Responsibility.
Campus
The Academy is located on the near west side, off of Patterson St. Both the school campus, and the surrounding area have seen a host of improvements over the past few years. In the summer of 2013, major work was done on the school campus, adding a number of features including new signage, landscaping, a new parking lot, picnic shelter and outdoor benches, and a basketball court. During the 2013-14 school year, the "Green Pioneers" group installed a rain garden to capture the runoff from the school roof, and reduce the amount of storm water that went into the city sewers.
Curriculum
New Tech uses project-based learning to engage students in relevant and meaningful work. Much of the classwork is done on computer. The school uses New Technology Foundation's echo Collaborative Learning Environment and Gmail/Google Drive for assignment management, grades, and collaboration. In the first year, before echo was finalized, the American Studies class used the Moodlevirtual learning environment. The following classes are currently available:
American Studies - a combination of American History and English 9.
English 11
World Studies - a combination of World History and English 10.
English 12
Software Technology & Success Skills - teaches students software applications and skills that help students get jobs.
Biology & Health
Environmental Science
Botany
Epidemiology
Chemistry
Physics
Geometry
Algebra I & II
Pre Calculus/Trigonometry
Entrepreneurship - class is responsible for running the school store.
Spanish: Levels 1-4
Art - This class can be taken as a Dual Credit Course, earning both High School and Ivy Tech credit.
Sociology
Government
Economics
Service Learning Classes
IVYT111 - An Ivy Tech class taught on-site at ASE.
Biotechnology 100 & 102 - An Ivy Tech class taught on-site at ASE.
Ivy Tech Release - Allows students to take classes on the local Ivy Tech campus.
Film as Literature
Dramatic Literature
Physical Education
Extracurricular activities
Many extracurricular activities are available at The Academy of Science and Entrepreneurship including but not limited to:
Business Professionals of America
Spanish Club
Space Club
Robotics Club
Student Leadership Team
The Academy Theater Company
Chess Club
National Honor Society
Art Club
Environmental Club
Dance Club
Students may also participate in the activities of their "home school". Many Academy students have been in band, theater, or on sports teams at Bloomington North or South.
