The Steinmetz Military Academy is a rigorous program where the students are taught discipline, communication, and teamwork. Within this program, the students are exposed to different activities throughout the year. On Fridays, both JROTC and JROTC Academy run for physical training day. There are drill team competitions that the students can get involved in. JROTC students participate in parades and are color guards. They usher for school functions such as report card day and plays.

JROTC replaces the gym period that a student would normally have. The JROTC Academy is a four-year program of honors classes for the students. There is a required interview to enter the programs. The Steinmetz Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) Academy is a special initiative providing a unique learning experience for students who are highly motivated. Students study in small groups guided by a team of dedicated teachers and military instructors.

Interdisciplinary Approach: Traditionally, the social studies department has enhanced its curriculum with an interdisciplinary approach to history. We accomplish this by working in conjunction with the art department, while exposing our students to a wide range of art and history. The art component enhances student interest in history, allowing students to view history from a different more creative perspective. The projects students produce are included in student portfolios and are used as authentic assessment
Living History: The Living History Program brings to Steinmetz individuals who have experienced significant events in history. Through their presentations, students gain new insights into history from a personal perspective. As part of this program and the social studies department's aim at increasing civic awareness, a number of elected public officials, such as U.S. congressmen and senators, visit the school and meet with interested students.

The International Baccalaureate Program provides a rigorous high school curriculum serving those students who desire a high degree of academic challenge and opportunity on the upper secondary level. Founded in Geneva, Switzerland, over thirty years ago, the IB program was originally developed to insure that children of career diplomats received an education which would be recognized by educational institutions world-wide. With an emphasis on critical thinking, IB students are encouraged to develop an international view, with reinforced global connectedness. An advanced honors curriculum offered at the ninth and tenth grade levels enables the Pre-IB student to prepare for a structured course of study during the eleventh and twelfth grades. The culmination of such intense academic preparation ultimately fosters a great like likelihood of success on the internationally scored IB examination the award of the prestigious IB diploma.
The Steinmetz Program can provide:
- a serious academic atmosphere with highly motivated students
- IB trained master instructors with a commitment to providing an exemplary education
- an emphasis on critical thinking, interdisciplinary connections and service activities
- personalized assistance with college selection and admission.
Selection Criteria:
- ITBS (Iowa Test of Basic Skills) stanines of 6 or above in reading and mathematics as indicated on seventh grade test data.
- a strong record of academic achievement in all major subject areas                      
- an excellent attendance record
- a student/parent interview
- the completion of three placement examinations