Magnet Program: Science, Technology & Engineering

**Magnet applications for the 26-27 school year will be accepted starting March 2nd, 2026 at 8:00 AM via Google Form**

**Magnet applications will only be accepted by Google Form 

Please use the following link: https://forms.gle/Cj4zqp1m6TccEA5L6

Hutchinson's STEM Magnet Program is an introduction to engineering principles and a pathway into the Engineering Academy at La Mirada High School.  

Our sequence of courses begins in 6th grade and have PLTW: Project Lead the Way component.  If you would like to apply for our Magnet Program, the application is below.  

You can submit an application through the link below beginning on March 2nd, 2026 at 8:00 AM.

https://forms.gle/Cj4zqp1m6TccEA5L6

 

STEM MAGNET PROGRAM
(FULL YEAR COURSES)
Project Lead the Way (PLTW) is a nationally recognized computer science and engineering program. It provides transformative learning experiences by engaging students in hands-on activities, projects, and problems; empowering them to solve real-world challenges and inspiring them to re-imagine how they see themselves. The skills that our students develop here at Hutchinson Middle School align with La Mirada High School’s Engineering or Biomedical Science Pathways.

 

6th Grade: Environmental Engineering

This is a project-based course that offers students an opportunity to go deeper into science topics related to the environment. This course utilizes Whitebox Learning. Students design and model alternative energy sources and evaluate options for reducing energy consumption.

*6th grade Environmental Engineering has a Zero period option. This allows for students to have two electives. The Zero period class has limited space and is on a first come first served basis. During the application process you will be able to request Zero period. Acceptance into the magnet program does not guarantee a spot in Zero period. Students who do not have Zero period will have Environmental Engineering between periods 1-6.
APPLICATION REQUIRED FOR ALL INTERESTED STUDENTS

7th Grade: PLTW Automation & Robotics and Structural Engineering
In Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Automation and Robotics, students will focus on the engineering design, mechanisms, development, building, and programming of robotics including behaviors, systems and control sensors. Students use the VEX Robotics platform to design, build and program real-world objects such a traffic lights, toll booths and robotic arms. The Structural Engineering course uses Whitebox Learning as a curriculum to create scale model structures and real-life applications for engineering principles.
APPLICATION REQUIRED if not enrolled in
6th grade Environmental Engineering


8th Grade: PLTW Design & Modeling and Medical Detectives 

This year-long course consists of 2 Project Lead the Way (PLTW) modules: Design & Modeling and Medical Detectives. Design & Modeling focuses on the elements of engineering design including technical drawing, CAD modeling, and 3D printing.
In the Medical Detectives course, students play the role of real-life medical detectives as they solve medical mysteries through hands-on projects and labs.
APPLICATION REQUIRED if not enrolled in 7th grade PLTW Automation & Robotics and Structural Engineering

 

8th Grade: Computer Science Essentials

In this high school course, students will use visual, block-based programming and seamlessly transition to text-based programming with languages such as Python® to create apps and develop websites and learn how to make computers work together to put their design into practice. They’ll apply computational thinking practices, build their vocabulary, and collaborate just as computing professionals do to create products that address topics and problems important to them.

APPLICATION REQUIRED if not enrolled in 7th grade PLTW Automation & Robotics and Structural Engineering

 

8th Grade: Engineering Essentials

In this high school course, students explore a variety engineering disciplines, focusing on sustainability, ethics and systems thinking. Students explore the breadth of engineering career opportunities and experiences as they solve engaging and challenging real-world problems like creating a natural relief center system or creating a solution to improve the safety and well-being of local citizens.

APPLICATION REQUIRED FOR ALL INTERESTED STUDENTS