In Irving ISD, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education is introduced to students at an early age, ensuring that our learners are prepared to excel in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. By encouraging innovation and collaboration, students are not only learning academic concepts but also gaining real-world experiences that will set them on the fast track to success.
At Thomas Haley Elementary School, these opportunities include the VEX IQ Robotics program, led by 5th grade teacher Giovanny Fraire Esparza. Through the program, students learn the technical aspects of how robots work while developing valuable teamwork, problem-solving and critical thinking skills. In their first year, the team has competed in a total of three competitions. Most recently, they showcased their talents at the Texas Region 2 VEX IQ Robotics Competition, where they competed against 40 teams. The Thomas Haley robotics team tied for 2nd place and earned the prestigious Create Award, which recognizes creative engineering design solutions, teamwork, effective communication skills and the ability to tackle challenges with innovation. The students’ success in such a competitive environment speaks volumes about the program’s effectiveness and the students’ growing confidence in STEM-related projects.
“STEM is the future,” Esparza emphasizes. “Our society revolves around technology, and everything our kids will do in the future will involve technology. We have to prepare them for it now.”
For students like Nolan Takoua, participating in the STEM program has been a transformative experience.
“I initially joined because I thought it would be fun to build a robot and compete against other students,” says Takoua. “I love math and science, and I’d like to be an engineer when I grow up. This program is helping me get there. It’s helping me learn things I wouldn’t normally learn in school, and it’s an opportunity for me to learn coding and how robots function in real life.”
As more students like Takoua embrace the challenges and rewards of STEM education, the future appears brighter – not only for Thomas Haley, but for the entire Irving ISD community. Through programs like these, students are being equipped with the tools they need to succeed in the careers of tomorrow – ones that may not exist yet. But with a strong foundation in STEM, they will be ready for whatever the future holds.
To learn more about Irving ISD’s STEM & Innovation curriculum, visit IrvingISD.net/STEM.
