STEM

The Math and Science Academy at Presentation High School is a co-curricular program that inspires student interest in mathematics, science, engineering, and health sciences while preparing them to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

Rooted in the belief that the greatest scientific and mathematical advancements happen through collaboration, the Academy brings together bright, curious students to explore knowledge and apply it to real-world problems. Throughout the year, the Academy hosts evening colloquiums featuring scholars and professionals—especially successful women in STEM—which are open to the entire school community and the public. Students also benefit from exposure to advanced programs like COSMOS and the ISTS course, where they engage in hands-on research and interact with leaders in academia and industry.

In addition to academic enrichment, the Academy supports participation in activities such as Mu Alpha Theta, a national math honor society with service and colloquium attendance requirements. Students are also encouraged to take part in math contests and join the school’s Robotics Team, which, while not run by the Academy, offers opportunities for engineering exploration and competition. With a focus on leadership, problem-solving, and innovation, the Academy empowers students to pursue their STEM passions beyond the classroom. By fostering community, curiosity, and collaboration, the Math and Science Academy cultivates the next generation of women leaders in STEM.
 

Project Invent, a co-curricular program that empowers students to become inventors for social good. Through hands-on, real-world problem solving, students work in teams to design innovative technologies that address meaningful challenges faced by members of their local community.

Guided by mentors and educators, students gain experience in engineering, design thinking, and entrepreneurship—all while learning to lead with empathy. Project Invent inspires the next generation of changemakers by showing them how their creativity and compassion can make a real impact.

Opened in celebration of Earth Day 2024, the garden at Presentation High School is a vibrant, student-centered space designed to support environmental learning and well-being.

Created in collaboration with the Muwekma Ohlone people, the garden—named Nano’s ‘Ewwe, meaning “light” in the Chochenyo language—reflects a shared commitment to sustainability and respect for the land. It serves as a hands-on learning environment where students engage in activities through the Garden Club and Project Invent, developing creative solutions to support plant care and environmental stewardship. More than just a place to learn, the garden offers a peaceful sanctuary for students to connect with nature and recharge.

Team 2135, Presentation Invasion, is our all-girls entry into the world of high school competitive robotics to grow  a love of STEM. 

We are a “learn by doing” program where young women learn to design, manufacture, build, program, and compete with robots in the FIRST Robotics Competition. There are no pre-requisites beyond a desire to learn about STEM-related fields.

As a “learn by doing” program, young women can gain confidence and overcome their hesitation to STEM topics. Students design, manufacture, assemble, program, and compete with 120lb robots against other high school teams in the region. The team teaches how to recognize that making mistakes while learning is a key part of the process. There are no pre-requisites required to join beyond a desire to learn about STEM-related fields.

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