Junior Academy of Science
2023 COVID UPDATE: N95 or KN95 masks are not required, but are highly recommended for all teens attending in-person events regardless of vaccination status. This policy is subject to change as circumstances arise, keeping safety in mind for everyone.
More than 400 middle and high school students from public, private and home schools across the region experience hands-on opportunities in science, engineering and medicine through the Junior Academy.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN!
Corporations, science organizations and universities open their labs and research areas to teens at a critical time…when they are laying the science and technology path for their future. From examining pet nutrition at Nestle´ Purina, meeting with leading-edge aerospace engineers at Boeing, experiencing an overnight at the Shaw Nature Reserve, working in the dissection lab at Saint Louis University and having access to the best university libraries, Junior Academy members realize the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to discovery and a strong, early grounding in math and science.
Recognizing that each child has potential, Junior Academy membership is open and available to all middle and high school students in the area and offers challenging and engaging science competitions and opportunities for a full range of academic levels. Thanks to donations, Junior Academy memberships start at $30 and scholarships are available to students in need.
“Junior Academy is great! I can’t believe all of the scientists I have met! The hands-on experiences in the labs – well, I never imagined that I would get to be in a real research lab! Meeting teens from across the region is the best! Thank you!” – Mary N., Junior Academy of Science Member
WHY?
Hang out with other students who love science! This is the best way to be included in free opportunities. Enjoy hands-on workshops from robotics to zoology to computers—and more.
- Advance notice and registration for free Academy teen programs and Teen Science Cafes
- Members-only field trips
- Junior Academy of Science members serve on the STEM TEENS Youth Leadership Team.
Generous support for the full array of Academy STEM Teens programming is provided in part by The Boeing Company, the Employees Community Fund of Boeing St. Louis, and the Mary Ranken Jordan and Ettie A. Jordan Charitable Foundation.
FAQ’s
When are programs held?
Junior Academy programs are held after school and on weekends.
Where are programs held?
Junior Academy programs are held at Universities, Corporations and Science Organizations who open their labs to students for behind-the-scene tours with hands-on experiences.
Are students transported to programs?
Parents or guardians drive students to events.
How long are the programs?
Programs usually last about 1.5 hours. Check the Academy calendar listing for exact times.
Are parents allowed to stay for the program?
Junior Academy events are chaperoned by Academy of Science Staff. If there is room at the venue, parents may attend (sometimes parents stand along the back of the room while the students are in front.) If a parent needs to drop off a student and pick up after the event – that is ok (be mindful of the time for pick-up).
Are siblings allowed to Junior Academy events?
You should make other arrangements for the siblings of your Junior Academy student. Junior Academy events are for students in Grades 6-12. Please check the Academy website as we do have some family opportunities throughout the year that are open to all.
How do we find out about upcoming programs and events?
Students are notified via e-mail of upcoming events and activities. Students receive an “early registration opportunity” for events that are open to the general public. Events are also listed under the events tab on the Academy website.
Are Junior Academy Members required to attend all events?
Students can attend events that are of interest to them and fit into their schedule. If they cannot attend, that\’s ok. However, students and parents love to see all of the science opportunities in the region as well as science careers to consider for the future! We do not have membership meetings for Junior Academy of Science.
Are you preparing for college? Check out our new College Handbook with helpful tips for middle school students on becoming college-ready.
Junior Academy members in Grades 6-8 are welcome to join our “Science Careers: Student Explorations” program sessions. Click here to find out more information and to register.