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Science Department

From the study of seeds and plants in Kindergarten through accelerated physics, genetics, sustainable horticulture and organic chemistry at Princeton High School, we offer a full spectrum of science courses designed to prepare students for a changing world. We want to instill in students a love of scientific inquiry, enable them to meet challenges, and to persevere to find solutions. For specific information about science courses offered at Princeton High School please consult our PHS Program of Studies.

 

School Gardens

Our vibrant school gardens provide hands-on learning experiences for a multitude of classes, from art to science. The lessons our school gardens provide range from teaching students how to plant, tend, and harvest fresh fruits and vegetables to studying prey and predator relationships within a garden ecosystem. Our garden educators work with students to care for each school's garden and teach students how to make a garden thrive.
 

Advancing a Course Level

High school students may be able to advance a course level in science. Please review the PHS Program of Studies and contact the Supervisor of Science for additional information. 
 

Math and Science Program Reviews Scheduled for 2023

PPS plans to conduct evaluations of the Mathematics and Science programs during 2023. A timeline of this work is below:

  • The district has received proposals from outside experts to conduct a review of the Mathematics and Science programs. 
  • A committee of district staff and the BOE’s Student Achievement Committee members will be meeting with the prospective vendors in December.
  • The district aims to approve a finalist in January and begin the reviews in the late winter/early spring.
  • This work will include a review of our written curricula, classroom observations, surveys, and focus groups of students, staff, and community members. 
 

PHS 3-Year Research Program

The PHS 3-Year Research Program is now accepting applications for the 2022-23 school year. This program is geared towards students who are interested in pursuing their own independent research project. All current freshmen are eligible to apply. The application link can be found below. Students who apply should be independent and highly motivated to pursue a research project. Applications are due 12/15/21. Please contact Ms. Katz (Room 280), Ms. Smolyn (Room 270, or Mr. Eastburn (Room 287) with any questions. 

Research Program Application

2022 Summer PHS Science Programs

We are now accepting applications for the following summer programs.  You must sign-in to your school Google account to fill out these forms.

PHS Summer Accelerated Chemistry Program

PHS Summer Biology Bridge Program

PHS Summer Chemistry Bridge Program

 

Contact

Dr. Joy Barnes-Johnson, 6-12 Supervisor of Science
JoyBarnes-Johnson@princetonk12.org
609.806.4280 x 3660

 

Science Program Opportunities

2021 VIRTUAL Ronald E. Hatcher Science on Saturday Lecture Series 

Beginning on Saturday, January 9, 2021, at 9:30 AM EST and running through March 13th, the Science Education Department at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) will be offering some amazing lectures given by renowned experts in their fields. Click here for more information and to register for the series.

STEM Program at Princeton University for 8th/9th Graders 

The W.E.B. Du Bois Scholars Institute at Princeton University has expanded the Accelerated Learning Academy (ALA) STEM program to include 8th & 9th graders! The W.E.B. Du Bois Scholars Institute is a leadership development organization for adolescents and secondary students. Since its inception in 1988, the Institute has provided extensive leadership, scholarship and community service training with the goal of developing a cadre of activist scholars-leaders who excel both academically and professionally. Through rigorous university-level courses and guidance, the Institute aims to help youth develop to their fullest capacities so that they can better serve others. This year in light of COVID-19, the program will be online, yet will still maintain forms of interactivity, STEM activities, discussions and student engagement! The application and supporting materials deadline is  February 3, 2021. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so we encourage students to apply as early as possible. Click here for more information and to apply.