Catholic schools expand STEM through the infusion of religion across all subjects and the inclusion of the arts. The result is S.T.R.E.A.M. - Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, The Arts, and Mathematics. S.T.R.E.A.M. is a framework of instruction that enhances our commitment to delivering a rigorous and engaging academic program that celebrates, develops, and aspires to meet the needs of our learners.
S.T.R.E.A.M. compliments the long-standing tradition in Catholic schools of educating the whole child from pre-kindergarten through high school. It develops a student’s appreciation of God as our creator and teacher in every area of learning. S.T.R.E.A.M. raises the bar so that our schools maintain their competitive edge. It is a proactive response to the difficulty business leaders across the United States have in finding skilled individuals prepared for successful careers. S.T.R.E.A.M. provides opportunities for our Catholic schools to be forward thinking, engaging students in problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, and 21st Century Skills. S.T.R.E.A.M. compliments and enhances instruction in our schools in order to meet the standards of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), which are the foundation of our curriculum in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.
Schools in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston can become part of S.T.R.E.A.M. SYNERGY, where S.T.R.E.A.M. activities can be offered as a club, as a special program operating before or after school, or as part of the school’s instructional program. Schools interested in becoming part of the S.T.R.E.A.M. SYNERGY are required to apply through the Catholic Schools Office. Schools must agree to uphold the National Catholic Education Association (NCEA) goals for S.T.R.E.A.M. including:
WHAT IS THE NATIONAL CERTIFICATE FOR STEM EXCELLENCE (NCSE)?
The National Certificate for STEM Excellence (NCSE) recognizes individual school campuses for their commitment to – and growth in – teachers’ implementation of 21st Century and STEM strategies. Evolving from STEM professional development and curriculum created at Rice University, NISE STEM certificates integrate the most recent research and best practices in STEM, 21st Century Learning and professional development.
Congratulations to these schools that have already received, or are in the process of earning, their National Certificate of STEM Excellence - Campus Certification.
WHY THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR STEM EDUCATION (NISE)?
The National Institute for STEM Education is more than a certifying body. NISE is a support system for campuses seeking to improve their implementation of STEM practices. With the support of an experienced STEM leadership coach, campuses craft and implement a STEM Action Plan to become a 21st-century STEM campus.
ARCHDIOCESE OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
There are only 3 Catholic Elementary Schools in the United States that are certified STEM schools by the National Institute for STEM Education. 2 of the 3 Catholic Elementary Schools are in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston:
Christ the Redeemer Catholic School |
St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School |
Funding partners, volunteers, and grant writers are just a few examples of how you or your organization can become involved in S.T.R.E.A.M. SYNERGY. The options are limitless. If you are interested or need more information, contact Renee’ B. Nunez, Assistant Superintendent of Academic Excellence at 713-741-8704. You may also contact a Catholic school principal in your area.