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Della Icenhower
Application Window: December 15, 2025 through January 23, 2026
Deadline for Applications: January 23, 2026 @ 4:30 p.m.
Academy Overview
Icenhower STEM Academy is a 5th and 6th 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.
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Application Considerations
When deciding to apply for the Della Icenhower STEM Academy, families should consider the unique learning environment at the academy. Applicants should be:
Current 4th graders interested in hands on learning that allows them to explore Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. *Note: 4th and 5th graders will be able to apply for the 27-28 school year in the fall of 2026.
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.
Eligibility Requirements
Please be aware, that eligibility to apply to Della Icenhower STEM Academy is based on the zoned campus of your current address.
Zones eligible for Della Icenhower STEM Academy and Future Feeder Intermediate/Middle STEM Academies
Elementary:
Nancy Neal, Mary Jo Sheppard, Carol Holt, Charlotte Anderson, Glenn Harmon, Kenneth Davis, D.P. Morris, Roberta Tipps, J.L. Boren, Janet Brockett, Martha Reid, Thelma Jones, Imogene Gideon, Louise Cabaniss
Intermediate:
Cross Timbers, Asa Low, Della Icenhower
Split Zone Campuses
Elementary:
Tarver-Rendon
Intermediate:
Donna Shepard
Split Zone Applicants Only: Please refer to the map below (click to enlarge). If you live north of the bold line you are eligible to apply to Della Icenhower STEM Academy. If you live south of the bold line you are eligible to apply to Alma Martinez STEM Academy.
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.
List any clubs or hobbies you have been involved in during the past two years.
List 3 characteristics that best describe you.
Describe a real-world problem that you think needs to be solved in the next 20 years.
Describe what excites you about a STEM academy in Mansfield ISD.
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.
For the 2026-2027 school year applications will be processed to fill vacant seats as they come open. Due to construction delays we are unable to expand the number of 5th grade seats.
Beginning in the 2027-2028 school year there will be 100 5th grade seats at Della Icenhower STEM Academy. At least 56 4th grade applicants will be selected to enter the 5th grade. Up to 44 seats can be filled by current 4th graders who attend Carol Holt STEM Academy.
Additionally in the 2027-2028 school year there will be 100 6th grade seats at Della Icenhower STEM Academy. At least 50 5th grade applicants will be selected to enter the 6th grade. Up to 50 seats can be filled by the 5th graders attending STEM temporarily housed at Carol Holt STEM Academy.
Learners from each zoned MISD feeder pattern will be represented at the STEM Academy (see map above).
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 Della Icenhower STEM acceptance status.
Admitted learners will need to reply to their Della Icenhower STEM Academy invitation by 4:30 pm on March 27, 2025.
Learners who do not accept the invitation by the deadline will forfeit their seat at the Della Icenhower STEM Academy and that seat will be filled from the waiting list of applicants.
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