W.A. Perry Middle School -BLAST/Aerospace Program
W.A. Perry Middle-BLAST Magnet
Program Description:
Through the Richland One BLAST (Building Lasting Aerospace and STEM Trajectories) Aerospace Magnet Program at W.A. Perry Middle, 6th-8th grade students are engaged in hands-on, Project Lead the Way curriculum through a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) approach with a focus in aviation and aeronautics.
Our aerospace magnet students are supported by experiential learning, consisting of multiple projects throughout the school year that require planning, experimenting, data collection, presentation of results, and reflection. This rigorous, fast-paced curriculum challenges students to achieve high levels of engagement and success through our Project Lead the Way units built upon South Carolina state standards.
Our aerospace theme serves to ignite curiosity, promote exploration, and foster collaboration and scientific thinking through hands-on, inquiry-based learning experiences. The interdisciplinary curriculum provides students with strong foundational knowledge and emphasizes understanding of the world around them.
BLAST Magnet Pathway: Students who attend our BLAST Magnet program have the unique opportunity to experience a STEM-integrated curriculum and Aerospace Pathway from Kindergarten-12th grade (from Watkins Nance Aerospace Magnet to W.A. Perry Middle Aerospace Magnet to the National Defense Magnet at Columbia High).
To create a seamless transition, eighth-grade students in the Aerospace Magnet Program at W.A Perry Middle will automatically be enrolled in ninth grade in the National Defense Magnet at Columbia High School.
Program Location: W.A. Perry Middle School
Program Type: School-within-a-school model
Grades: 6th-8th Grades
Eligibility Criteria: Open to all Richland One students
Student Selection Method: Lottery
Enrollment Capacity: 20 spots per grade level (6th-8th)
W.A. Perry Middle School
Rounds 1 and 2 of applications are completed for the 24-25 school year.
We are accepting applications for the wait list for 6th and 7th grade.
There are a few seats remaining for 8th grade.
Are you interested in learning more? Contact me:
Karen Ogen, STEM Consultant, karen.ogen@richlandone.org or 803-256-6347.