The STEM Middle School Magnet Program offers students interested in science, technology, engineering, and math an inquiry-based, inter-disciplinary environment to explore diverse STEM topics within their traditional subjects as well as in unique STEM-driven subjects. Located at Old Mill Middle South, Lindale Middle and Central Middle Schools, the STEM Magnet Program engages students in field research experiences and challenges them to think critically, communicate effectively, and become engaged and inquisitive STEM learners.      

ALL STEM middle school magnet students will actively participate in a year-long Changemaker Capstone project during their 8th grade tenure. Changemaking is part of the social innovation movement where people/students work in creative teams to make a lasting impact locally and/or globally through planning and taking action. In their changemaking work, students will develop skills in empathy, sophisticated team work, creative problem-solving, collaborative leadership, and project management. Everyone at any age can be a meaningful Changemaker! 

Current grade 5 students and their families in AACPS will be able to apply for a seat in one of our middle school STEM programs for the 2025-26 school year beginning in October of 2024.  The application window for STEM middle school magnet programs will be open from October 7 - November 7, 2024 at noon for the 2025-26 school year.   

AACPS STEM Magnet Program middle and high schools will hold Fall Semester Magnet Information Nights to offer details of all programs for students and families considering whether to apply to any one of our STEM Magnet Programs.  

Note: Applications for STEM middle and high school magnet programs are no longer being accepted for the 2024-25 school year.  The application window for the 2024-25 school year was open from October 9, 2023 until November 13, 2023.