Program Summary:
The Magnet program is a highly focused and rigorous four-year honors program. Students will take many of the school’s advanced placements math and science classes while having the flexibility to pursuit other disciplines at the advanced level. In addition to having the opportunity to take advantage of the numerous advanced placement courses, students will enroll in a series of three research-based analysis courses that are offered exclusively to students enrolled in the Magnet program. During the research-based analysis course sequence, they will receive special training in research methods, scientific investigation, advanced data analysis, and technical writing that will provide them with the skills necessary to complete their independent research projects. In addition, during the RBA classes, students will work on group projects, individual projects, team building and character building projects. Instructors will emphasize knowledge production through creative problem solving and foster natural creativity. 

            Participants will enjoy hands-on experiences as well as learn several data analysis software programs including Minitab, Excel and JMP. Being able to communicate ideas is very important and so, in addition to speaking publicly, members will also utilize many of today’s latest technological advances for communication (including pod casting). The program will encourage service projects and team unity. In addition, students will learn from and communicate with many guest speakers from industry who will come to discuss how mathematics and science at the high school and collegiate level relate to real world industry.

By the end of the program students will have developed a professional, well-organized and original research project, which the program has coined an “Expert On Something Significant” project (EOSS) – the something significant to be chosen by the student. Working in collaboration with the Gifted and Talented Coordinator, students will present their findings through several communication channels. The hope is that students will be extremely proud of his or her project and have a great deal to say, contribute and offer others. In addition, students will be encouraged to submit their work for publication

Eligible Population:
Eligible Population:
The Magnet Program is available to motivated and talented 8th grade students from the four Morris Hills Regional sending districts, as well as 8th and 9th grade out-of-district students that are interested in participating in the school choice program.

For more information on the school choice program, please go to the links for Inter-District School Choice and Intra-District School Choice on the Morris Hills Regional District website.

Target Population:
The Magnet Program is not just looking for hard-working and intelligent students, but students with curiosity, passion and vision. Students will examine an area of science they are interested in and conduct their own independent research projects throughout the 4 years of the program. The research skills required to complete their independent research projects will be taught throughout the series of three Research-Based Analysis courses that are at the center of the Magnet program. We believe that strong research skills emanate from the ability understand why research is important. We will explore the “so what?” question. Why is the research I have done important? Who will benefit from my research? In addition, we want the program to evolve from the ideas of the students and community. With this, parental and community involvement is welcome and encouraged.

Location:
All courses will be taught on the Morris Hills High School Campus.

Schedule:
The Mathematics and Science Magnet Program runs on Morris Hills time 8:05am – 3:02pm

Class Rank:
Students are ranked with the general population of Morris Hills High School

Extra-Curricular Activities:
Students will participate in Morris Hills activities, clubs and athletics

Admissions:
In addition to completing a common application, candidates must provide a recommendation form from both a science and mathematics teacher as well from a building administrator. Each candidate must also complete an entrance exam, essay and interview.

Important Dates:

When	What	Where
Thursday, October 6 7:00 pm	Magnet/IB Information Session #1	Morris Hills Auditorium
Wednesday, October 19 7:00 pm	Magnet/IB Information Session #2	Morris Knolls Auditorium
Tuesday, November 1	School Choice Intent to Participate Form Due
Thursday, December 1	Applications Due
Saturday, Dec 3 8:00 am	Admissions Testing	Morris Knolls Cafeteria
Wednesday December 7 – Thursday December 8	Interviews Day 1 & 2	Morris Knolls Guidance
April – TBD	Magnet Accepted Students Reception	Morris Hills - TBD

Research Based Analysis:
Research-Based Analysis 1: Statistical Methods

The key research concept taught during RBA-1 is experimental design and the research process, including data analysis

Statistical Analysis Software: TI-84, Minitab, JMP and Excel

Research-Based Analysis 2: Forensic Science

The key research concept taught during RBA-2 are the techniques required for conducting experiments. The importance of precision, accuracy, record keeping, etc will be taught during laboratory investigations in Forensic Science. In Forensic Science, students will use proper data collection techniques to analyze fingerprints, synthetic blood samples, hair types, DNA, etc as they investigate crime-scenes in the laboratory.

Research-Based Analysis 3: Biomedical Research

This course presents the study of biomedical research from an inquiry-based approach.  Students will incorporate multiple topics in Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Physics to find solutions to biomedical problems using technology and mechanics. Students will continue to develop their ability to design and conduct experiments as well as analyze data. They will learn about the different areas of biomedical engineering such as basic and applied research in engineering and biology, as well as medical practice and research. Case studies, laboratory activities, and field studies are an integral part of this course.  In addition, students will be trained in critical reading and technical writing. A special emphasis will be given to the mathematical and scientific toolbox that the students learned in RBAI & RBAII. Students will be exposed to a variety of cutting edge topics in the medical field that include, but are not limited to DNA Mapping and Biotechnology, Stem Cell Research, Bioprinting/Organ Printing and Robotics/Artificial Limbs.