10 Things That Make Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology STEMtastic!

Learn more about this Virginia's Governor School unique

We Are a Comprehensive High School with a STEM focus!

Virginia Governor’s School

We are a Virginia Governor’s School that emphasizes the sciences, mathematics, and technology. We cover over 1,300 miles of Northern Virginia, with students coming from Fairfax County, Prince William County, Loudoun County, Arlington County, and Falls Church City. 

Students measuring the circumference of the Earth
Our students are constantly working on unique experiments, like this one in Geosystems where they used shadows to measure the circumference of the Earth

Top Ranked

We consistently rank among the top high schools and STEM schools in the nation and are the top-ranked high school in Virginia. We have a 100% percent graduation rate, and 99% of our students attend a four-year college.

ThreeRIgorous Coursework

Nearly all academic class are considered accelerated/honors level. We offer several post-AP level courses as well, with many students choosing to dual enroll for college credit.

Specialized Research Laboratories

We make sure student research plays an essential role in their experience at TJ. Graduation requirements include the completion of an original engineering or experimental research project. We have eight stand-alone labs (Astronomy and Astrophysics, Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Chemical Analysis and Nanochemistry, Computer Systems, Engineering, Mobile and Web, Neuroscience, Oceanography and Geophysical Systems, Quantum Physics and Optics) along with an integrated engineering lab that includes five disciplines (Automation and Robotics, Engineering Design, Microelectronics, Prototyping, Energy System, and Engineering Materials).

Student-Led TJ Symposium

We have a senior capstone experience called tjSTAR which stands for TJ Symposium to Advance Research. Our entire student body, senior parents, mentors, and business partners attend research seminars hosted by our seniors.

Class of 2025 dancing during their Homecoming MEX performance
Our students know how to have fun! Here the Class of 2025 performs their Musical Extravaganza during Homecoming 2024!

Long-Standing AP Platinum School

We are a College Board Advanced Placement (AP) Platinum School and have been for many years. This recognition is based on a commitment to fostering a strong college-going culture, offering students opportunities to earn college credits, and enhancing their readiness for postsecondary success. 

Discovering Interests, Pursuing Passions

On Thursday, November 9th and Friday, November 10th, Juniors taking US History courses participated in the first ever Oakton High School Veterans Day celebration. 21 veterans from across all branches of military service participated, sharing experiences to help students better understand the sacrifices made by veterans, active duty military personnel, and their families. Additionally, students also benefited from learning about the military as a potential career option. The program was very well received and the Oakton High School Social Studies Department looks to expand the program to additional grades next school year. If you or someone you know would like to participate this coming school year, please contact James Oberndorf. 

Grand Award Winners at ISEF

We have multiple students win Grand Awards at the International Science and Engineering Festival every year!

Girls soccer team competing
We go beyond STEM and excel outside the classroom as well! Here is our girls soccer team in action!

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Fostering an Inclusive Community

TJ is a strong community where everyone belongs. Results of the 2023-24 Family Engagement Survey show that 96% of TJ parents reported that we welcome families of different backgrounds and cultures. In the same survey, 97% of students reported TJ has a positive school climate.

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#Wecameforthesports and So Much More!

Beyond being STEMtastic in the classroom, our students excel outside of the classroom, too. TJ’s student athletes perform at high levels in football, basketball, golf, tennis, volleyball, and other sports. Also, students in visual and performing arts have won accolades from events including the CAPPIES and art shows, and our band and orchestra students have earned chairs in various musical ensembles.