Huntsville STEM high school to open applications for 2026
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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.