STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Although we are a STEM school, we are dedicated to the development of well-rounded students who can succeed at anything, and are citizens of the world. So we provide a robust liberal arts program in literature, languages, world culture, history and art. Neither science nor humanities exist in a vacuum - they are inseparably linked to each other. STEM education provides a unique approach to teaching and learning that fosters innovative thinking in all students across all disciplines. STEM education emphasizes collaboration, communication, research, problem solving, critical thinking and creativity- skills that all students need to be successful in today’s world regardless of specific interests or career goals.

• Less than one-third of U.S. eighth graders show proficiency in mathematics and science

• About a third of bachelor’s degrees earned in the United States are in a STEM field, compared with approximately 53% of university degrees earned in China, and 63% of those earned in Japan.

• More than half of the science and engineering graduate students in U.S. universities are from outside the United States.

We want every student to feel confident pursuing any aspiration - including technical fields. And we know that the sciences influence every aspect of our everyday lives. So even if one isn’t going to be a biologist or physicist, an understanding of genetics, and principles of flight and geography and radio waves, will be key to being an informed participant in the world. Ask any artist how much technology influences their profession!

We aim to continuously improve STEM curriculum, instruction, assessment, teacher quality, leadership and community engagement. STEM education is about developing globally competent talent, and our educators and community partners play a vital role in helping us ensure our STEM learning experience.

No, PSA is a private, chartered, nonpublic school. We maintain compliance with the Operating Standards for Ohio Schools. This ensures that our students’ transcripts and education are recognized by other schools, and students have the right to participate in various programs such as scholarships, College Credit Plus, using school bus transportation, etc.

No, although we emphasize hands-on, collaborative and experiential learning, similar to Montessori schools, we are not a Montessori-affiliated school. We have developed our program based on best practices and innovative successes found in schools throughout the US and globally. We provide a comprehensive, cost-effective education mindful of the challenges of our region, while providing a world-class educational experience for grades K-12.

All teachers are licensed by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce.

Our classrooms operate with teacher-student ratios no greater than 16:1.

Local school districts are required to provide transportation for all students to and from Portsmouth STEM Academy as long as the student lives no more than 30 minutes away from their neighborhood school.

Because of our focus on individualized learning, and a continuous learning path, there may be no assigned homework. The goal is accomplish everything during the school day. By the time kids are done with school, they need their rest and play time, and research has shown there is no achievement benefit to routine mandated homework at the elementary level.

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We want to remove the stress and fatigue that homework adds to family life. You’ve finished your day at work when you pick them up. We think the kids should be done too. Relax. Be a family. Go for a walk. Have some fun.

Portsmouth STEM Academy students that wish to participate in team sports or extracurriculars not offered by PSA, such as football, may play on teams in their home public school district.

Portsmouth STEM Academy participates in Ohio’s EdChoice Scholarship Program. EdChoice scholarships are available to eligible K–12 students and may cover the full cost of tuition at PSA. Scholarship eligibility and award amounts are determined by the State of Ohio and may vary based on family income and other applicable criteria.

PSA also participates in the Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship Program for eligible students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Our staff can assist families with understanding scholarship options and completing the required documentation.

For current eligibility requirements and application information, please contact the school or visit the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce website.

Tuition is an annual cost, regardless of total days of attendance. Early morning drop-off and after-school care is provided at no extra cost, whether you use it periodically or every day. The cost includes all transportation for events, all school supplies, and a school-issued personal laptop/iPad for every student.​

We embrace and recognize the importance of the arts. In fact, because of our commitment to creating well-rounded students who can pursue any field of study or interest, our students get more fine arts hours and activities than most other schools!

Portsmouth STEM Academy uses a whole-child approach to understand and support student growth. Academic achievement is important, but it is only one part of a student’s development. Teachers consider multiple sources of information, including classroom performance, projects, observations, student reflections, and assessments such as NWEA MAP.

Assessment information helps teachers identify strengths, monitor growth, adjust instruction, and provide appropriate enrichment or support. PSA also recognizes the importance of social-emotional development, executive functioning, relationships, resilience, and student engagement. This comprehensive approach allows us to better understand each student and support continued growth academically, socially, and personally.