Huntsville STEM high school to open applications for 2026
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.

Huntsville's only full magnet high school will start accepting applications for the 2026 school year on Oct. 17.
Why it matters: New Century Technology High School is focused on preparing students for STEM careers that are in high demand in Huntsville.
Zoom in: The school's focus on biomedical science, computer science and engineering has landed students local internships with Brown Technologies, HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology and Northrop Grumman.
What they're saying: "One of the best things — we have a small population of about 400 kids, we know our students," principal Heather White tells Axios Huntsville. "They really do impress us every single day."
- "Our goal is if we can keep you here in the workforce, that's what we want to do," she said.
How it works: Eighth graders with a 3.0 GPA apply for one of 135 freshman spots, White said. Last year, the school received just under 400 applications.
- Applications are put into a lottery and a computer makes the selection.
- The school has a high retention rate, but still accepts some students at higher grades after other students move or leave, White said.
- White says there's no charge to attend, but students must live within the Huntsville City Schools district.
Context: Huntsville City Schools offers two other magnet programs: the College Academy at Jemison High School and Lee Creative and Performing Arts at Lee High School.
New Century Tech has a 100% graduation rate, offers 22 Advanced Placement courses and now a research focus in its three STEM concentrations, according to the school.
- Thirty students are published authors of research papers, and White says the school is now looking to establish its own journal for student research.
Yes, but: It's not all about academics. Students can continue sports at the schools they're zoned for, and NCTHS has a regular homecoming, an ROTC program and an ultimate frisbee team.
- "(We) still try to make sure we offer the true high school experience," White said.
What's next: The school is hosting a community information session Saturday, Sept. 27, 9–11am, at NCTHS, 2500 Meridian St. N.
