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. 

The application asks your learner open ended questions, you might consider might consider having them type their 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. 

It is best that these questions be answered using your learner's voice and tone without assistance from adults or AI.

1. List any clubs or hobbies you have been involved in during the past two years.

2. List 3 characteristics that best describe you.

3. Describe a real-world problem that you think needs to be solved in the next 20 years.

4. Describe what excites you about a STEM academy in Mansfield ISD.

5. List additional information you would like the reviewers to be aware of.

STEP 1: Complete Application

• Applications are available December 15, 2025 at 9:00 am.

• Applications are available on the MISD Power of Choice website OR click the link above

• Applications will not be accepted after 4:30 pm on January 23rd. 

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 13, 2026 after 4:00 pm of their Charlene McKinzey STEM acceptance status.

• Admitted learners will need to reply to their Charlene McKinzey STEM Academy invitation by 4:30 pm on March 27, 2026.

• 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.