Franklin Township board hears plan for new Warrior Next Tech Academy, a middle-school STEM program

Amy Arcewaler, the district’s supervisor of instructional technology, and Eric Siegel, supervisor of science and work-based learning, presented the Warrior Next Tech Academy, a proposed middle-school STEM academy that will start with a sixth-grade cohort and grow year-by-year into a full academy.

"We are excited to share a little bit about the Warrior Next Tech Academy," Arcewaler said, describing project-based digital learning that pairs core subjects with technology lessons provided through partnerships with SHI and Intel. Siegel added the program emphasizes ‘‘immersive technologies’’ including VR, drones and 3D printing and will use a dedicated lab space for collaborative, hands-on projects.

The presenters said Hamilton Street will host the academy; students from across the district will be bused to that site each day. Siegel said the first-year cohort will be 75 students, expanding to 75 per grade over three years as the program grows. Enrollment will open via a Google form and a paper sign-up distributed to fifth graders; selection will rely on a student-interest survey, specific placement criteria and a lottery if demand exceeds seats. A parent information night is scheduled for March 11 with translation services planned.

Board members asked about equity, capacity and the role of the district’s industry partners. Siegel said SHI has connected the district with Intel and other resources, and can provide mentors, field trips and engineers to support student learning. Presenters emphasized that academy students will still have access to all electives and will mix with peers for lunch and physical education.

Board members praised the plan and outreach: one member called for broad publicity and livestreaming so families understand the opportunity. Arcewaler and Siegel said they have begun attending PTSO meetings and will speak at five fifth-grade assemblies to explain the program to families.

The presentation closed with the board thanking the district instructional leaders and supervisors who have helped build the curriculum and planning to support implementation.