High School Adds New Science Program

Aiming to better prepare its students for cutting-edge careers in engineering, medicine, computers and beyond, Chatsworth High School will welcome 160 students into a four-year science program beginning this fall.

Formally known as the Academy for Success in Science Education and Technology (ASSET), the academic track will offer students specialized instruction and career planning during their four years at Chatsworth.

“We felt they needed a sense of belonging and we needed to focus on careers,” explained Assistant Principal Donna Wyatt, who began developing the school-within-a-school with science faculty members late last year.

Incoming students will begin with a conceptual physics course in ninth grade, she said. From there they can pursue a variety of paths in classes such as advanced placement biology, chemistry and physics. Classes will also be paired with other disciplines such as health and English to build students’ skills in other areas.

The goal is to expand the school’s science curriculum and build partnerships with San Fernando Valley businesses for guest speakers, field trips and summer internships.

“We’re taking what we’ve done in the past that’s been successful and really building it up,” said teacher Steve West, who will serve as ASSET’s chairman.

Parents of incoming ninth-graders can apply for the program until May 24, Wyatt said. If more than 160 applications are received, the school will hold a random-drawing lottery on May 29.

To learn more about ASSET, parents are invited to an orientation session for incoming freshman at 7 p.m. Monday at the campus, 10027 Lurline Ave. Parents may also call (818) 341-6211.