Attention: You are using an outdated browser, device or you do not have the latest version of JavaScript downloaded and so this website may not work as expected. Please download the latest software or switch device to avoid further issues.
The overwhelming majority of our grant money each year goes
directly to supporting needs within TJ's classrooms
as identified by the TJ Administration and leadership team.
Your generosity allows us to support critical enhancements
to the TJ educational experience each and every year!
Quantitative and Digital PCR
$51,353
This grant funds the purchase of Quantitative and Digital PCR instruments for TJ’s Biotechnology and DNA Science labs, enhancing instruction in advanced molecular techniques for both seniors and underclass students in related courses.
From the grant request: “Digital PCR (dPCR) has significantly advanced molecular biology. Digital PCR can be used to detect rare mutations… and study custom genes without the use of a standard curve for faster, simpler, and more precise quantification. Together, these instruments will support significant advancements in the teaching labs and research courses at TJHSST.”
Professional Development
$35,000
Teaching at TJ is unlike teaching at any other high school in America, from the unique emphasis on research fundamentals to the top-notch student body. That’s why the Partnership Fund supports a grant each year to allow the TJ administration to deliver a purpose-built professional development experience for its world-class faculty.
A delegation from TJ attends the National Consortium of Secondary STEM Schools (NCSSS) Conference each year. This year’s event took place in San Antonio, TX, from November 6–9. As a longtime leader in the consortium, with Dr. Ann Bonitatibus serving as immediate past chair, TJ shares and gains innovative STEM education practices that benefit students locally and nationwide.
The Partnership Fund’s annual Professional Development grant supports TJ’s participation in the NCSSS Conference, meals for staff during the annual Professional Development Week prior to the start of school, and other school-identified PD opportunities.
Quantum Optics Kit
$33,802
This grant supports the purchase of a ThorLabs Quantum Optics Education Kit, allowing students to explore fundamental properties of single photon interactions and use that knowledge as a basis for independent research. This enhancement to the “Q-Lab” allows students to move from merely discussing the theory and basic postulates of photon behavior to proving them through hands-on experimentation – a hallmark of TJPF’s impact on the TJ curriculum.
The “Q-Lab” has been unique among high schools in America for its advanced approach to quantum theory. Introducing the means to study the behavior of single photons takes this research space to a new and exciting level.
Student Group Grant Program
$26,899
Each year, the TJ Partnership Fund offers TJ’s remarkable Student Groups the opportunity to apply for funding for their events, competitions, programs, and other activities that enhance TJ’s national profile and support outreach efforts to bring STEM education to the broader Northern Virginia community.
This year’s Fall cycle saw thirteen of TJ’s Student Groups receive approval for a total of $26,899: Bioinformatics Society, Chess Club, Computer Team, LaunchX, Model United Nations, Physics Team, Public Forum Debate, Robot Uprising, Rocketry/NASA Student Launch, Science Olympiad, Technology Student Association, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, and Varsity Math Team.
Summer Curriculum Hours
$5,770
TJ is at the forefront of re-imagining the possibilities of secondary STEM education through its unique focus on hands-on research and exploration. And the TJ Partnership Fund understands that the hard work that goes into pedagogical innovation deserves to be compensated appropriately.
This grant supports the payment of TJ’s faculty for the time needed over the summer months to develop new courses and refine existing ones, ensuring that TJ remains a leader in this space for years to come.
Courses this year either developed or refined through this grant include:
Join us in Supporting TJ's Educational Mission!