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:
 

1. To incorporate Catholic identity into every aspect of the curriculum through student directed, project-based experiential instruction.
2. To be forward thinking, faith-based institutions that place high priority on faculty training, learning, leadership, and 21st century skill applications.
3. To provide a challenging learning environment that is focused on the integration of religion into science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics.
4. To increase the content literacy of all students in every aspect of the curriculum, while maintaining a Catholic educational foundation.
5. To operate with the premise that math and science competencies can be developed, and that every student needs access to a S.T.R.E.A.M. curriculum to be fully engaged 21st century learners.
6. To promote a climate of innovation in all areas of instruction.
7. To inspire the participation of student populations who are traditionally underrepresented in the sciences and the arts.
8. To foster a climate that encourages problem solving, group collaboration, student-directed learning, and independent research.
9. To understand that success is defined in multiple ways and can-and does-occur in many different types of schools and learning environments.
10. To utilize strategic planning as a blueprint to guide the development and implementation of the S.T.R.E.A.M. curriculum. 

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.