Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST)
6560 Braddock Rd, Alexandria, VA 22312
703-750-8300
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    U.S. Patent No. 6,915,286 
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Ann Bonitatibus
[email protected]

School Summary

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) is the product of a partnership forged between the business community and Fairfax County Public Schools to improve education in science, mathematics, and technology. This unique Fairfax County Public School offers a comprehensive program focusing on scientific, mathematical, and technological fields. The core skills and values infused throughout the curriculum emphasize and promote critical inquiry and research, problem-solving skills, intellectual curiosity, and social responsibility. As the regional magnet Governor's School for Science and Technology in Northern Virginia, the school serves applicants from five different participating school districts: Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William counties, as well as the City of Falls Church.

Since its very first graduating class in 1985, student research has played an essential role in learning at TJHSST. Requirements for the Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology Diploma include the completion of an original engineering or experimental research project in an on-campus laboratory or off-site through a Mentorship program at a government, corporate, or university research laboratory. Jefferson's science and technology research laboratories include:

  • Astronomy & Astrophysics
  • Automation & Robotics
  • Biotechnology & Life Sciences
  • Chemical Analysis & Nanochemistry
  • Communication Systems
  • Computer Systems
  • Energy Systems
  • Engineering Design
  • JUMP Lab
  • Microelectronics
  • Mobile and Web Application Development
  • Neuroscience
  • Oceanography & Geophysical Systems
  • Quantum Physics & Optics
  • Prototyping & Engineering Materials

Selected outstanding research projects are published in TJHSST's annual student-produced research journal, TEKNOS, which has won numerous national awards.

Admissions

A holistic review will be done of students whose applications demonstrate enhanced merit; 550 seats will then be offered to the highest-evaluated students. Students will be evaluated on their grade point average (GPA); a student portrait sheet where they will be asked to demonstrate Portrait of a Graduate attributes and 21st century skills; a problem-solving essay; and experience factors, including students who are economically disadvantaged, English language learners, or special education students.


Last Updated: 2023-10-23

Enrollment Enrollment as of October 202425: 2107
 
Grades 9-12
 
FCPS Programs Last Updated: 2022-01-14
 
Special Features
  • 25 Varsity Sports
  • 8th Period - 185 + student academic and enrichment clubs
  • Accelerated Curriculum
  • Accelerated Summer School options
  • Admission by application only
  • Challenge Success
  • CHUM ¿ integrated Chemistry and Humanities
  • Fine Arts Programs
  • IBET - integrated Biology, English, and Technology courses for all 9th grade students
  • Mentorship Program for individual 12th grade student research
  • Specialized technology laboratories
  • Student Honor Code
  • Virginia Academic-Year Governor's School
Last Updated: 2019-02-01
 
Business Partnership
 
Attendance Area

This school is by admission only. The school is not part of a region, but is under the Office of Chief of Schools.