At Charlottesville City Schools, we bring science to life through hands-on observation, engaging content, and innovative design processes.

From our elementary school iSTEM program to state-of-the-art engineering labs at our middle and high schools, science and innovation are integrated into all levels of learning at Charlottesville City Schools. Guided by the Virginia Science Standards, we also use the world as our classroom and our best teaching tool. This includes practical experiences in our garden classrooms, outdoor trails and creeks, and field trips to enriching locations such as Camp Albemarle. This comprehensive approach ensures that our K-12 students develop a deep, cohesive understanding of science that prepares them for future academic and career success.

PreK-4 iSTEM Program

Our PreK-4 iSTEM program integrates science, technology, engineering, and math from the earliest grades. This program lays a strong foundation for future learning by fostering curiosity and problem-solving skills. Students engage in cross-curricular activities that familiarize them with coding, engineering, and innovative thinking, preparing them for more advanced opportunities in our Innovation Hub.

Engineering Program

At Buford Middle School and Charlottesville High School, our engineering program offers a pathway for students interested in STEM. The program builds on the hands-on, cross-curricular learning of the PreK-4 iSTEM program, providing more advanced and specialized instruction as students progress. The competency-based curriculum ensures students master essential skills and knowledge, equipping them for higher education and engineering careers.

Expansive Offerings at CHS

CHS offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses in Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Science, and Physics. There are also courses in app development, forensic science, ecology, and geology. 

Middle School Innovation Hub

The Innovation Hub at Buford Middle School is a center of creativity and advancement. It enriches the entire educational environment by ensuring every student participates in its unique offerings. Building on the foundational skills developed in our PreK-4 iSTEM program, students enter middle school well-prepared to tackle more advanced STEM concepts and projects.

In 2024-25, the Innovation Hub will “soft launch” for seventh grade only. Once it is fully operational…

• In 6th grade, students begin their middle school journey with a focus on exploring diverse interests and developing essential technical and real-world problem-solving skills. 
• As they progress to 7th grade, they undertake comprehensive, interdisciplinary projects designed to provide practical experience and exposure to various industries, enhancing their understanding of real-world applications of their studies. 
• The culmination of this integrative experience is seen in the 8th grade, where students develop capstone projects. These projects synthesize their learning journey and prepare them for future academic and professional challenges.

At the Innovation Hub, students are empowered to turn their ideas into reality and shape the future.

Together, these programs highlight our commitment to leading with science and fostering a culture of innovation at Charlottesville City Schools.