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LA PORTE ISD STEM ACADEMY

Innovation • Collaboration • Preparation for Tomorrow

Welcome to the La Porte ISD STEM Academy!

We are committed to equipping students with the skills, confidence, and creativity needed to thrive in tomorrow’s world. Through engaging, hands-on experiences in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, we prepare our students to be the innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders of the future.

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Michael Newman

Lead STEM Teacher

Why STEM in La Porte ISD?

In La Porte ISD, STEM isn’t just a subject – it’s an experience! Our Program:

  • Sparks curiosity throughout hands-on labs, makerspaces, and engineering design challenges.
  • Encourages students to collaborate, communicate, and think critically.
  • Integrates literacy, social-emotional learning, and creativity into STEM learning.
  • Connects students to real-world careers and industry partnerships in our community.

STEM Academy Goals

Students in the LPISD STEM academies will:

  • Apply the Engineering Design Proces (EDP) to solve authentic, real-world problems. 
  • Communicate ideas effectively through speaking, writing, and presenting. 
  • Use collaboration and teamwork to strengthen innovation.
  • Explore connections across science, math, literacy, and the arts. 
  • Build confidence, resilience, and a love of lifelong learning.

Pathways & Structure

Our STEM program grows with students throughout their educational journey:

Elementary (PK–5th)
- Dedicated STEM Labs and Makerspace Carts at every campus.
- Project-based learning units tied to literacy and core content.
- Early exposure to robotics, coding, and engineering design.

Intermediate & Middle School (6th–8th)
- Gateway to Technology courses, robotics competitions, and advanced math/science pathways.
- Opportunities to join competitive Robotics Teams

High School (9th–12th)
- Advanced STEM courses, CTE pathways, and dual-credit opportunities.
- Access to La Porte High School’s state-of-the-art STEM facilities (Planetarium, STEM Lab, Animal Science Research Center).
- Opportunities for industry certifications, internships, and college readiness programs.

Signature Programs & Experiences

• District-Wide STEM Academies at every elementary campus.
• STEM Bus (coming soon!) bringing mobile STEM labs across the district.
• District Robotics Program: FIRST LEGO League, Battle Bots, and more.
• Annual STEM Night featuring hands-on activities, exhibits, and family engagement.
• Partnerships with University of Houston–Clear Lake (Project Launch) for GT students.
• Collaboration with industry partners (Dow, DuPont, etc.) to connect learning to careers.

Student Showcase

Our students are problem-solvers and creators! Recent projects include:

• Designing ice cream savers in 3rd grade labs.
• Building rescue robots for elementary robotics challenges.
• Engineering community solutions during “STEM Olympics.”
• Exploring space, renewable energy, and coding in our curriculum units.

Resources & Links

Resources for Parents

• FAQs: What is STEM? How does it fit into my child’s learning?
• Parent Guides: How to support STEM learning at home.
• Upcoming Events Calendar [link to district calendar with STEM events].
• Applications/Forms: [Insert link if applicable].

Quick Links

• STEM Curriculum Maps
• Engineering Design Process Overview
• Robotics Information
• STEM Events & Calendar
• Contact the STEM Team

As part of LPISD’s mission to provide equitable opportunities for all learners, our STEM Academy prepares students to lead, innovate, and leave a lasting STEM legacy in our community.