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. 

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:

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.