Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world. The STEM Academy focuses on hands-on learning and enhances future ready skills by igniting curiosity, creativity, collaboration, leadership and critical thinking.

In English Language Arts (ELA), Social Studies and Math, there is one STEM Fusion cross curricular mini unit per six weeks that aligns with the existing unit content. TEKS following the pacing calendar is embedded into each unit.

In Science, STEM Fusion aligns with unit content with an additional focus on career connections and is an introduction to CTE and STEM pathways that are offered in high school.

In Art, the 6th grade course flows directly into VILS courses in 7th and 8th grade, focusing on the use of 3D printing, laser-cutting and digital design alongside traditional art projects.

STEM Fusion focuses on hands-on learning that provides a unique way of interacting with all school subjects and engages students differently; encouraging a joy of learning and increasing the excitement about subjects. This curriculum also helps students understand and see how subjects can be used in real-world scenarios and future career opportunities, while preparing them for high school and beyond.

Parents play a crucial role in supporting their child’s STEM education at home by fostering curiosity and critical thinking. Encourage your student to ask questions and the “how” and “why” things work in everyday life. Attend STEM nights, Maker Sessions and Design Days at de Zavala. 

Yes. Athletics, band, choir, orchestra, theater arts and more are all available to students at de Zavala Middle School STEM Academy. See all extracurriculars & clubs.

Incoming 6th graders (current 5th graders) may apply for de Zavala Middle School STEM Academy for the 2026-2027 school year. 

The application window is open between October 23 - November 21, 2025, for the 2026-2027 school year.

When the application opens on October 23, visit IrvingISD.net/Apply and fill out the online application. Please note, the application will not be linked until October 23.

Students who currently attend de Zavala do not need to apply and will remain at the campus until entering high school.

The transformation of de Zavala into a STEM School of Choice will be phased in gradually. This means that current students will finish their time at de Zavala without any changes to their academic program or enrollment.

Acceptances will be made in two lottery rounds as follows:

• Round 1 Selection Notification: December 9, 2025
• Round 2 Selection Notification: January 6, 2026

If a student is not selected in either round, the student will be placed on a waitlist based on their first choice.

Bus transportation is provided for Schools of Choice. Eligibility follows existing transportation guidelines and takes into account proximity to the school and additional criteria, in accordance with state and federal law.

Principal Tiffany Williams - ChooseDeZavala@irvingisd.net, 972.600.6000