Katherine G. Johnson STEM Institute:
Powering Innovation and Excellence at Alpha Academy

 

At Alpha Academy, the Katherine G. Johnson STEM Institute stands as a cornerstone of our commitment to academic excellence and innovation. Fully integrated into the school’s curriculum, the Institute provides students with a comprehensive and engaging STEM education from elementary through high school—preparing them not just for graduation, but for a future filled with possibilities.

Named after the pioneering NASA mathematician Katherine G. Johnson—whose groundbreaking calculations helped launch America’s first space missions—the Institute reflects our belief in representation, achievement, and possibility. Her legacy lives on through our students, who explore complex problems, pursue bold ideas, and build the confidence to lead in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The Institute is not an after-school program—it’s a fully embedded part of the Alpha Academy experience. Students at every grade level engage in high-impact STEM initiatives such as Science Olympiad, a prestigious national competition that pushes students to apply scientific knowledge to real-world challenges, and High School Computer Science, where students develop skills in programming, data analysis, cybersecurity, and web development. These experiences are supported by hands-on labs, modern technology, and project-based learning that bring STEM concepts to life.

Our program goes beyond textbooks, connecting students with guest speakers, virtual field trips, and STEM mentors, while offering access to local and national competitions. Through these enriching experiences, students build awareness of college and career pathways in high-demand STEM fields while discovering their own passions and potential.

STEM in the Community

The Institute also prioritizes strong community partnerships to extend learning beyond the classroom. Students regularly engage with local and state STEM leaders through collaborations with:

  • Fayetteville State University (FSU) Planetarium

  • North Carolina State University (NCSU) County Extension

  • NCSU Science House

  • Cape Fear Botanical Garden

  • Museum of Life and Science

  • Museum of Natural Sciences

  • Marbles Kids Museum

  • Greensboro Science Center

  • NC STEM Center

  • Carolina Tiger Rescue

These partnerships allow students to participate in hands-on field experiences, research projects, and workshops that connect their classroom learning to real-world science and innovation.

Global Connections in STEM

Alpha Academy’s STEM Institute also connects students to NASA resources including the NASA.gov portal, NASA STEM education programs, and the NASA Image of the Day initiative. Students even participate in virtual field trips with Brookhaven National Laboratory, engaging in real-time scientific exploration from Grades 1–5.

STEM Resources and Research

Our curriculum is supported by credible resources such as:

  • NC Science Festival

  • U.S. Department of Education

  • NC Department of Public Instruction

  • Scholarly STEM Articles and research-based strategies

Through these platforms, teachers and students remain informed, connected, and inspired by the latest innovations and best practices in STEM education.

At Alpha Academy, STEM is not just a subject—it’s a mindset and a mission. The Katherine G. Johnson STEM Institute ensures every student is empowered to explore, lead, and innovate. With deep community partnerships and global connections, our students are boldly stepping into the future—just like Katherine G. Johnson did.