As the demand for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education continues to grow, more families in Utah are seeking schools that provide strong STEM-focused instruction. Hawthorn Academy, a free public charter school in northern Utah, is at the forefront of this movement. With two campuses—South Jordan (K-6) and West Jordan (K-9)—Hawthorn Academy is dedicated to preparing students for the future through hands-on STEM learning and project-based STEM education.
Why Choose a STEM-Focused Charter School in Utah?
Parents looking for charter schools in Utah often prioritize STEM education because it equips students with essential 21st-century skills. STEM schools in Utah focus on fostering creativity, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking—the "4 C’s" that drive innovation and problem-solving.
At Hawthorn Academy, STEM education is not just an add-on—it is embedded into daily learning experiences, ensuring that students gain the knowledge and skills necessary for success in an increasingly technology-driven world.
Hands-On STEM Learning at Hawthorn Academy
One of the hallmarks of a STEM focus school is the hands-on, experiential approach to learning. Instead of memorizing facts from a textbook, students at Hawthorn Academy engage in:
- Interactive science experiments that encourage inquiry-based learning
- Technology integration, including coding, robotics, and digital literacy
- Engineering challenges that develop problem-solving skills
- Mathematics applications in real-world contexts
For example, a recent 6th-grade STEM project at the South Jordan campus involved students designing and testing bridges using physics and engineering principles. This type of hands-on STEM learning keeps students engaged and helps them apply theoretical concepts in meaningful ways.
Project-Based STEM Education: Learning Through Real-World Applications
At Hawthorn Academy, students don’t just learn STEM—they experience it through project-based learning (PBL). PBL allows students to tackle real-world challenges by working on long-term projects that require research, collaboration, and critical thinking.
Some examples of project-based STEM education at Hawthorn Academy include:
- Environmental Science Projects: Students research local environmental issues and propose sustainable solutions.
- Coding & Robotics Challenges: Students build and program robots to complete tasks, preparing them for future careers in technology.
- Engineering Design Process Activities: Students design, prototype, and refine solutions to practical engineering problems.
By integrating STEM into real-world applications, Hawthorn Academy ensures that students develop not only technical knowledge but also problem-solving skills that will benefit them in any career path.
A Safe and Engaging Learning Environment
Hawthorn Academy’s mission and vision center around high expectations, individual growth, and academic achievement. The school is committed to creating a safe and supportive learning environment that allows every student to thrive.
With small class sizes, dedicated educators, and a strong curriculum aligned with Utah’s core standards, students receive personalized attention that helps them succeed in STEM subjects and beyond.
Preparing Students for the Future
The goal of STEM focus schools in Utah is to prepare students for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and math. By fostering early interest in these fields, Hawthorn Academy helps students develop the skills and confidence needed to pursue careers in engineering, computer science, healthcare, environmental science, and more.
As Utah continues to expand its STEM industries, students who graduate from STEM schools like Hawthorn Academy will be well-equipped to contribute to the state’s growing economy and workforce.
Enroll at Hawthorn Academy Today
If you’re searching for charter schools in Utah that provide a STEM-focused curriculum, hands-on STEM learning, and project-based STEM education, Hawthorn Academy is the perfect choice for your child.
With priority enrollment for South Jordan 6th graders into 7th grade at the West Jordan campus, Hawthorn Academy offers a seamless transition for students to continue their STEM education.
Learn more about Hawthorn Academy’s STEM programs and how to enroll today! Visit our website or schedule a campus tour to see our innovative learning environment in action.