STEM I is a course within the STEM with Science and Technical Writing program, running from August through February and taught by Dr. Crowthers. In this course, students carry out an independent research project, beginning with idea development and in-depth background research, followed by designing a methodology, conducting experiments, and analyzing results. Students present their work-in-progress at the December STEM Fair and complete their projects at the February STEM Fair, with opportunities to advance to regional, state, and international competitions.