Among many new changes this year, IHA has introduced its very first STEM program.

This program consists of eighteen girls who are interested in pursuing careers in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math. Assistant Principal of Academics and Technology Mrs. Stephanie Brodeur created the program and wants the school to be strong in not only liberal arts, but STEM as well.

“I want the girls to realize that there is a place for women in these fields,” Mrs. Brodeur said. “They are talented and can work alongside men.”

Last year, between seventy and eighty girls applied to the program. Twenty were accepted and eighteen are taking part in it.

Next year the program will continue with the 2019 graduating class. “We hope to enhance our technology not only for the Stem program, but for everyone,” Mrs. Brodeur adds.

“It’s more challenging than our regular courses,” freshman STEM student Isabelle Souza comments, “ but it’s made to be difficult.”

Souza’s favorite class in the program is World History. “Nobody has Mrs. McDonough–just us,” she says. “I like what we’re learning and that we have a full-year course, [but] I expect next year to be even more challenging. We are going to be tested harder and have more pressure to do well.”