Dallas ISD News: Dallas ISD and nonprofits launch STEM initiative

To help make that happen, the district partnered with the National Math and Science Initiative and the Texas Instruments Foundation to launch a STEM Leadership Workshop Series that will provide professional development for middle school counselors and media specialists.

"When students encounter STEM in the library and the counseling office, it reinforces that STEM is a fundamental part of the school's culture and that it is relevant far beyond their math or science classrooms," Elena Hill, Deputy Chief Academic Officer, said. "This partnership is an exciting opportunity to ensure all students know what STEM looks like in the real world, helping them develop the self-confidence that they can be successful in high-level courses and future careers."

Through the workshops, which begin in the 2026-2027 school year, counselors and media specialists will learn strategies to integrate digital literacy and problem-solving into learning, connect students with diverse STEM professionals, incorporate STEM resources and technology, and encourage students to pursue rigorous coursework, including Advanced Placement and Career and Technical Education programs.

"Building a STEM identity means helping students truly see themselves as belonging and capable in science, technology, engineering and mathematics," Hill said.

In practice, that means focusing on three core building blocks:

• Knowledge and Skills: Deepening their understanding of math, science, and technology with workforce-relevant skills.
• Self-Efficacy: Building their confidence in their STEM abilities so they can envision STEM careers and feel welcomed in STEM spaces.
• Opportunities: Providing hands-on experiences, real-world goals, and connections with real world STEM professionals.

Research shows students' confidence in STEM often declines during middle school, making those years a critical opportunity to help students stay engaged and see themselves pursuing STEM careers.

By investing in counselors and media specialists, Dallas ISD hopes to reach students at a pivotal point in their academic journey and encourage them to explore opportunities they may not have otherwise considered.

"The opportunities waiting for our students are massive," Hill said. "Helping our students see themselves as future innovators opens a crucial door for long-term economic mobility.

Los estudios muestran que la confianza de los estudiantes en STEM a menudo baja durante los años de secundaria, lo que hace que ese periodo sea una oportunidad crucial para ayudarlos a seguir activos y que quieran perseguir una carrera en STEM en el futuro.

Al invertir en los consejeros y bibliotecarios, Dallas ISD espera poder llegar a los estudiantes durante ese punto de inflexión de su trayectoria académica y motivarlos a explorar oportunidades que de otro modo tal vez no hubiesen considerado para sus futuros.

"Son muchas las oportunidades que aguardan a los estudiantes", dijo Hill. "Ayudarlos a verse como futuros innovadores les abre una importante puerta para su movilidad económica a largo plazo".