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 are proud to offer a variety of programs to challenge and meet the needs and aspirations of all scholars. Currently, we offer four career pathways: Engineering, Computer Science, Biomedical Science, and Culinary Arts. All programs are aligned to industry standards and include learning experiences that will help scholars transfer classroom skills into authentic college and career experiences. Instructional curriculum guides are aligned to the New Jersey Scholar Learning Standards, which promote 21st-century learning skills. Teachers utilize research-based engagement strategies to promote high levels of scholar engagement through the integration of the 4 C’s: critical thinking, collaboration, creativity and communication. Staff members are provided with resources and opportunities for professional development so they may continue to grow as educators and deliver the highest quality instruction to our scholars.

Our goal is to ensure that every scholar exiting Rita L. Owens STEAM Academy is prepared for college and a career, empowered with critical thinking skills and equipped with a drive for knowledge. We recognize that this goal can only be accomplished through a true partnership between parents, scholars, community members and the school. We are committed to working closely with our families and providing ongoing communication between home and school. As parent and community involvement is vital to the success of scholars, I encourage you to stay in touch with your child’s teachers, become an active member of the PTA, volunteer at school events and participate in fundraisers. Your active support is encouraged as we strive to provide a high-quality education for all of our scholars.

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 to meeting and working with you as we 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