Trustees approve STEAM Academy & Early College Academy

The San Benito CISD Board of Trustees approved a proposal presented by Superintendent of Schools Dr. Nate Carman that calls for repurposing Dr. Raul Garza, Jr. Elementary to become the district’s designated Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics Academy, a campus that will target elementary students enrolled in kindergarten through fifth grade.

Trustees also approved proposed changes to Landrum Elementary, which will become the Landrum Educational Complex for Gateway and Positive Redirection Center students and could possibly house other departments, if deemed appropriate.

District leaders previously held public hearings where they had an opportunity to discuss these plans with members of the public.

Students previously attending those two elementary campuses are being rezoned to attend classes other elementary campuses. The changes go into effect during the 2018-2019 school year.

"We are looking forward to providing innovative educational opportunities for our students," said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Nate Carman. "Not only will our elementary students have a chance to take advantage of these Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics opportunities, our secondary students will also be able to take advantage of the Early College experience.  We are very confident that our students will excel and in doing so, they will be better prepared to meet the demanding challenges that will assist them with their future academic endeavors."