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Science and Technology Department

Science and Technology Department

Dr. Rebecca Grella, Coordinator
(631) 434-2338

AnnMarie Madsen
Science Staff Developer, K - 8

The Science and Technology department in the Brentwood Union Free School District stands as a beacon of innovation and educational excellence. We are committed to fostering a love of science and technology in all our students, empowering them with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the 21st century. In alignment with BUFSD graduation plus, our programs empower students to enter the workforce with appropriate skills, certification, or licensure, or be enrolled in a post-secondary program of study.

Our dedicated team of educators and administrators work to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment where students are encouraged to explore, experiment, and discover. From the earliest grades to high school graduation, we provide a comprehensive curriculum that integrates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) concepts, preparing our students for a wide range of future careers. 

Student pointing at a poster

Description automatically generated. Through hands-on activities, cutting-edge technology resources, and inspiring mentorship opportunities, we strive to ignite curiosity and cultivate critical thinking skills. We believe that every student has the potential to make a difference in the world, and we are here to help them unlock their full potential. 

Whether it's conducting groundbreaking research, designing innovative solutions to real-world problems, or simply developing a deeper appreciation for the natural world, the Science and Technology Office is committed to providing our students with the tools they need to succeed. 

Join us on this exciting journey of discovery as we shape the future of education in Brentwood. Together, we can inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and technology leaders. 

STEM Careers

In the BUFSD we know that a strong cradle-to-career STEM education will prepare students for the most in-demand, high-paying jobs – STEM jobs. Students on strong career pathways, accessed through STEM education, are better positioned to gain jobs that provide the economic security

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needed to contribute to the vitality of their families, communities, and local economies.

Scientists and engineers work across a wide range of career pathways throughout the STEM fields.    Our courses in BUFSD including biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, engineering, mathematics, robotics, computer science prepare students for careers. Explore the different types of STEM careers here and see what kind of opportunities here: STEM Careers | DoD STEM

Explore unique careers in the government: USAJOBS - Unique Career Paths

High School Course Offerings

For a list of high course offerings in STEM see Curriculum & Instruction - Science & Technology page.

Pathways Internship Programs

The U.S. Department of State’s Pathways Internship Program includes both the Internship Experience Program (IEP) and the Internship Temporary Program (ITEP). Both programs are targeted toward U.S. citizens enrolled in a wide variety of educational institutions from high school to graduate school and professional academic levels. Both programs provide students with opportunities to explore Federal careers while being paid for the work performed. Internship vacancy announcements are posted on USAJobs, year-round, on an as-needed basis with positions located across the United States. Pathways Programs - Careers.

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Access to STEM Enrichment Activities

STEM enrichment is crucial for students as it nurtures critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, preparing them for a world increasingly driven by science, technology, engineering, and math. Opportunities for STEM learning go beyond the classroom, with online resources, community programs, and local workshops providing hands-on experiences. These diverse options ensure that students can explore STEM concepts and inspire a lifelong love for discovery.

For a list of additional resources see Opportunities | DoD STEM

Student Competitions

Competition

Entry Date 

Grade Level

Website

National STEM Festival

October 20th

7-12

The National STEM Festival presented by EXPLR

Regeneron STS 

November 7th

12

Regeneron Science Talent Search - Society for Science

Junior Science and Humanities Symposium

November/ December

10-12

Junior Science and Humanities Symposium

Toshiba Exploravision

January

K-12

ExploraVision Stem Science Competition for High School Students

NASA Techrise

November 1st 

6-12

Future Engineers NASA TechRise Challenge

Long Island Science and Engineering Fair

Intent October

10-12

lisef.org

Long Island Science Congress

December

6-12

LI Science Congress - About LISC 

E CYBER MISSION

November 14th

6-9

eCYBERMISSION

Genes in Space

April 

7-12

Genes in Space

3M young Scientist Challenge

May 2nd

3-8

Young Scientist Lab 

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Summer High School Research Opportunities

Program

Grade / Age

Application Deadline

Website

Army Unite

Grades 9-12

December

Unite | AEOP 

Simons Scholars

Rising Senior

Nomination December

Simons Summer Research Program

Garcia Center

Must be 16

December

Garcia Center for Polymers at Engineered Interfaces

RSI

Rising Senior

December

Center for Excellence in Education

BNL HSRP

Must be 16

January

Educational Programs | High School Research Program