JPII freshman William Clarke has been selected to attend the highly competitive Summer STEM Program at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland this summer—an incredible opportunity that will challenge, inspire, and equip him for success in high school, college, and beyond.

The Naval Academy Summer STEM Program is designed for rising 9th through 11th graders who excel in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and who demonstrate leadership potential. Over the course of the week, William will live on the Naval Academy’s storied campus, experiencing a taste of life as a midshipman while participating in hands-on workshops, dynamic team challenges, and cutting-edge STEM projects led by Academy professors and professionals.

Daily activities will include:

• Designing, building, and testing engineering prototypes like gliders, bridges, and circuits
• Exploring robotics, coding, and cybersecurity through interactive experiments
• Collaborating with peers from across the country on real-world problem-solving challenges
• Learning leadership and critical thinking skills that are essential to success in the military, STEM industries, and beyond
• Experiencing life at the Naval Academy with physical training, academic sessions, and evening activities that build teamwork and camaraderie

Participation in this program is a tremendous honor. It not only strengthens students' academic profiles for highly selective colleges but also gives them a head start in developing skills that are vital for careers in engineering, technology, science, and national service.

"We are incredibly proud of William for earning a place in this prestigious program," said JPII Principal Heather Rembold. "The Naval Academy Summer STEM Program is not just about science and math—it’s about developing leaders who will use their talents to serve others with integrity, discipline, and innovation. William embodies all of those qualities."

For the Rembold family, the Naval Academy holds a special place in their hearts. Principal Rembold’s husband is a Naval Academy graduate, and their son, Sam Rembold (JPII '23), is currently a midshipman at the Academy.

"I am especially excited that William will get to experience firsthand the incredible spirit, discipline, and drive that the Academy instills," Mrs. Rembold shared. "This opportunity will be a springboard for him—not just academically, but personally—as he grows into a leader prepared to make a real difference in the world."

William’s journey through the Summer STEM Program will sharpen his passion for learning, strengthen his academic skills, and ignite a deeper sense of purpose as he continues his education at JPII and beyond.

We can't wait to see all that God has in store for William as he pursues excellence with courage and faith!