Smith STEM Academy recently hosted its much-anticipated STEM Career Day, bringing together local professionals, community leaders, and business owners from across the Crossroads area for a day filled with real-world learning and hands-on exploration. The event highlighted the diverse career opportunities available in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—many of which exist right here within the local community.
Throughout the day, students interacted with experts across various STEM fields, participating in engaging presentations, demonstrations, and discussions. The event provided meaningful exposure to real careers, helping students make connections between their classroom learning and potential future pathways.
In addition to Career Day, the school is continuing its focus on career-connected learning through two exciting grade-level experiences. Second grade students are currently preparing for their annual STEM Career Showcase, where they will each research a STEM-related career and present their findings to peers, staff, and families. This event encourages early interest in STEM fields and helps students practice important research and communication skills.
At the same time, fifth grade students are participating in the school’s signature Internship Program. After completing career interest surveys and job applications, students will take part in mock interviews with real community mentors. They’ll practice professional skills such as communication, eye contact, and workplace etiquette while preparing to step into their selected career roles. Each student will later spend a day out in the community, shadowing professionals and gaining firsthand experience in a real-world setting.
These impactful experiences are made possible through strong and consistent partnerships with dedicated organizations and individuals who support STEM learning at Smith STEM Academy. Valued partners include:
Chick-fil-A
City of Victoria Environmental Specialist
CivilCorp Surveying and Engineering
Dierlam Mortgage
Formosa Plastics
PAM Health
Region 3 ESC
Tess Smitherman (Pilot)
Texas Parks and Wildlife
Victoria College Nursing and Respiratory Therapy Departments
Zoom Physical Therapy
In addition to these incredible experiences, Smith STEM Academy has recently completed a year-long STEM Certification Program with the National Institute for STEM Education (NISE). The school is on track to earn the distinction of being a Nationally Certified STEM Campus—the first in the district, region, and surrounding regions to receive this prestigious recognition.