STEM 8 cohorts for 2026-2027
Application Deadline
DEC 18tH, 2025
3:05PM
Parents to Complete: application form
Teacher to complete: teacher reference
For the STEM 8 Cohorts…
Entrance Testing
To be as inclusive as possible there is no entrance test requirement, only an expression of interest by filling out the application form. The teacher reference must be also submitted for the application to be complete but does not affect access to the placement lottery. The purpose of the teacher reference is encourage thoughtful consideration (and perhaps discussion with the student) of what will be required for success in STEM 8 and beyond. The teacher should have worked with the student recently. Specifically we ask:
Does this student enjoy problem solving?
Does this student challenge themselves and keep working at it?
Does this student work effectively with others when group roles are clear?
I live in catchment; how do I apply?
In-catchment students who apply online on or before the December 18, 2025 (3:05 pm) deadline will be entered into a lottery. If you miss the deadline, your application will become part of the wait-list, in the order it is received.
If I live cross-boundary, can I apply?
Yes, even though the VSB cross-boundary process starts later! Apply online directly to the STEM program on or before the December 18, 2025 (3:05 pm). After that you can apply cross-boundary starting on the first school day of February, through the school board website. If there are spaces, your application will enter a lottery. If both cohorts are already full, your application will be put on a wait list in the order it was received. In most years, there have been two STEM 8 cohorts with a mix of local and cross-boundary students.
When will I know if my application has been accepted? (updated to reflect schedule changes at board)
February 11th, 2026 = 1st offers via email (9 AM)
February 13th, noon, 2026 = deadline for acceptance of 1st offer (noon)
February 18th, 2026 = 2nd offers via email (9 AM)
February 19th, 2026 = deadline for acceptance of 2nd offer (noon)
For STEM 9 to STEM 12…
It is completely acceptable to enter the program part-way through. We on-board new students every year without any problems. Where space permits, Templeton students may join the STEM program in any grade by contacting their grade level counsellor. Students from outside of Templeon should contact the school office. For students already in the program, there is no need to apply to continue into the next year.