Academy Overview

The Charlene McKinzey STEM Academy is a 7th and 8th grade Science, Technology, Engineering and Math program.  The academy is designed to integrate STEM pedagogy with core content instruction.  Learning is cross-curricular that concentrates on the use of the Engineering Design Process through project/problem-based learning opportunities.  The learning environment boasts innovative spaces including fab labs and flexible spaces that model 21st century design thinking.  The learning environment at the academy gives learners “voice and choice” to create, invent, tinker, and explore with the result being high quality and authentic products.  Learners will use 21st century skills; including collaboration, communication, creative thinking and critical thinking, while excelling in academic content.

Application Considerations

When deciding to apply for the Charlene McKinzey STEM Academy, families should consider the unique learning environment at the academy.  Applicants should be:

• Current 6th and 7th graders interested in hands on learning that allows them to explore Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.  

• Inquisitive and excited about learning in a collaborative environment.

• Interested in learning with enhanced technology availability.

• Performing on or above grade level per classroom grades and NWEA MAP data.

• Currently passing all classes.

• Interested in developing 21st century skills; including, communication, critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, character, and citizenship.

• Receiving satisfactory citizenship grades for the current school year.

Once you have read and understand the admission criteria, click the link below to submit your application. Please know that once the application form is started, it must be completed in its entirety. You will NOT be able to save and resume later. 

You might consider typing essay answers in a word processing program prior to beginning the online application. You will be able to copy and paste answers from a word processing program into the online form- especially if you will be completing more than one application. 

If you would like to view the application before opening the application submission form, view the preview application link below. 

Paper applications  must be submitted to: 

MISD Student Service Office

609 East Broad Street, 

Mansfield, Texas 76063

817-299-6360

STEP 1: Complete Application

• Applications are available December 16, 2024 at 9:00 am.

• Applications are available on the MISD Power of Choice website OR you can print the previewed application and complete it by hand.

• Applications must be submitted online or to the MISD Student Service office located at 609 East Broad Street by January 24, 2025 at 4:30 pm.  Applications will not be accepted after 4:30 pm on January 24th. 

STEP 2: Application Review and Selection Process

• After a completed application is submitted, the application will be reviewed.

• After the application deadline, applicants will be entered into a lottery.

• There are 150 7th grade seats.  At least 50 6th grade applicants will be selected to enter the 7th grade. Up to 100 seats will be filled by current 6th graders who attend Martinez STEM Academy.

• There are 150 8th grade seats.  Current 7th graders who attend McKinzey STEM Academy will have the opportunity to roll up to 8th grade, vacant seats will be filled by current 7th grade applicants.  Please visit our FAQ on the Power of Choice webpage for additional information.

• Learners from each MISD middle school campus will be represented at the Charlene McKinzey STEM Academy.

• Learners who are not offered a seat will be placed on a waiting list in an order determined by a random lottery.

STEP 3: Notification Process

• All learners will be notified March 14, 2025 after 4:00 pm of their Alma Martinez STEM acceptance status.

• Admitted learners will need to reply to their Alma Martinez STEM Academy invitation by 4:30 pm on March 28, 2025.

• Learners who do not accept the invitation by the deadline will forfeit their seat at the Alma Martinez STEM Academy and that seat will be filled from the waiting list of applicants.