Midland ISD Expands Hands-on STEM Learning in Classrooms

Midland ISD Expands Hands-on STEM Learning in Classrooms

MISD Expands STEM Learning Opportunities for Elementary Students

June 18, 2025 – Midland ISD is expanding hands-on STEM Learning Opportunities for elementary students by introducing new LEGO ® Education kits into classrooms across the district, thanks to a generous donation from ExxonMobil.

The donation enables the district to expand LEGO Education SPIKE™ Essentials enrichment curriculum into third grade and launch new LEGO Science kits for students in fourth and fifth grades. These interactive classroom kits are fully aligned with both the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) and the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), ensuring students receive high-quality standards-based instruction.

Each kit supports full-period, hands-on learning through the 5E instructional model--Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate-- bringing science and engineering to life through project-based learning.

"By introducing robotics, coding, and hands-on science in elementary school, students begin developing interest and confidence in STEM subjects years before they choose a high school CTE pathway," said Executive Director of Career and Technical Education Jeff Horner. "This creates a true continuum that will now begin with 3rd graders to develop skills essential in STEM careers."

Topics covered through the kits include physical science, life science, earth and space science, and engineering design. By fostering curiosity and problem-solving at an early age, the enrichment curriculum also strengthens the connection between elementary STEM learning and career and technical education (CTE) pathways in middle and high school.

MISD is proud to partner with ExxonMobil in bringing high-quality STEM opportunities to our elementary students. This investment supports our mission--All students will graduate college, career, or military ready. By laying a strong academic foundation and fostering the skills they need to succeed in any future path.

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Media Contact:

Jasmine Huerta

Communications Specialist

jasmine.huerta@midlandisd.net

All students will graduate college, career, or military ready.