The Socorro Independent School District (SISD), in a move that's garnered national attention, has just kicked off the new school year by celebrating a major achievement: recognition from the National Institute for STEM Education (NISE) as a leader in STEM education, both within the Lone Star State and across the country. According to Socorro ISD, this pioneering district is not only the first in West Texas to nab the National Certificate for STEM Excellence - District (NCSE-D) but also joins an elite club of only three districts in Texas to be so honored.
Superintendent James Vasquez, in an event last month, proudly highlighted the significance of this accolade to SISD educators, stating, "Your work shows the region, state, and nation that we are not only meeting rigorous standards in integrating STEM into our curriculum and culture but embracing STEM education to transform students’ lives," as per Socorro ISD. Furthermore, this NCSE-D certificate goes beyond a mere pat on the back; it represents SISD's pledge to prep its students for the collegiate level, a career, indeed, a world that morphs with unyielding pace.
The NCSE-D certification process, which spans a rigorous three-year period, includes phases coined Plan, Implement, and Sustain, focusing on bolstering district systems that back STEM educators and their students. Escontrias STEAM Academy, Sierra Vista STEAM Academy, and Montwood High School emerged as standout achievers within SISD, each securing an individual National Certificate for STEM Excellence - Campus (NCSE-C). Dr. Beth Pesnell from NISE, she who played a pivotal role in SISD's journey towards this distinction, expressed admiration, "You have earned this distinguished honor because of your commitment to ensuring that all students are engaged in an equitable and dynamic STEM education and that they become resilient critical thinkers and creative innovators in Socorro ISD and in their world beyond the classroom."
Diving into the district's well of young talent, students from the STEAM academies and Montwood High School paraded their innovative projects at the celebration. One fourth grader, Steven Guajardo from Escontrias, built wildlife sculptures from Legos and crafted 3-D printed signage for the academy's garden. "It’s full of stuff to do," Guajardo told Socorro ISD, expressing his delight in the academy’s creative freedom. At Montwood High, junior Philip Joseph took pride in how participation in robotics has prepared him for his future goals in mechanical and manufacturing engineering.
