Welcome to Rita L. Owens STEAM Academy, where “Classroom Activities are Connected With Real-Life Opportunities”. Rita L. Owens STEAM Academy is the first Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics school in the Irvington Public School District. Our mission is to inspire and instruct all students to think critically, creatively, and responsibly, to embrace diversity, and to pursue their dreams with purpose. We are dedicated to academic excellence, college and career readiness, and the social-emotional growth of our scholars.

At Rita L. Owens STEAM Academy, we remain committed to providing our scholars with innovative opportunities that prepare them for success in college, careers, and beyond. Each year, we continue to expand our academic offerings to meet the diverse interests and aspirations of our scholars. Currently, we offer five career pathways: Engineering, Computer Science, Biomedical Science, Culinary Arts, and our newest pathway, Multimedia/TV Production. This program will give scholars hands-on experience in digital storytelling, video editing, and broadcasting, empowering them to explore creative career pathways while mastering industry-relevant skills.

Our Dual Enrollment Program continues to grow, giving scholars the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school. We are proud to partner with New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), Essex County College (ECC), Saint Elizabeth University (SEU), and Hudson County Community College (HCCC) to offer a wide range of courses. This year, we are especially excited to introduce a new partnership with HCCC for our 12th grade Culinary Arts scholars. Through this unique program, Culinary Arts scholars will participate in three college-level classes over the course of two semesters, earning seven college credits and gaining immersive, real-world culinary training.

In addition to dual enrollment, we are also expanding our Advanced Placement (AP) offerings. This school year, scholars will have access to a robust selection of AP courses, including AP English Literature & Composition, AP Calculus, AP U.S. History, AP Chemistry, AP Physics: Algebra-Based, AP African American Studies, and AP Computer Science Principles. These rigorous courses challenge scholars academically, provide opportunities to earn college credit, and strengthen their college applications.

At Rita L. Owens STEAM Academy, our mission is to ensure that every scholar is equipped with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in their next chapter. Whether through career tracks, dual enrollment, or AP courses, we are proud to offer meaningful pathways that prepare our scholars for bright and successful futures.

In closing, it is an honor and privilege to serve the Rita L. Owens STEAM Academy community. As your principal, I am committed to leading us in the spirit of service, community, and excellence. I look forward toworking with you as we continue to build a tradition of excellence. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, comments, or concerns.

Here is to a successful year together!

Tyisha L. Bennett
Principal