Crowley ISD Connections Magazine Fall 2016 | Page 5

“It’s going to … put her in a position to be able to advance in different areas in her education,” Cavazos said. “I think it’s going to be something that interests her and keeps her going.” Paige said the STEM Academy is challenging but interesting. “The projects that we do are really cool — very hands on,” she said. “In my science class, my teacher actually said for extra credit we can make a water vortex. I think I might try it because it seems really cool for an experiment, and I’ve never actually been asked to do something like that.” “ “ He’s becoming the lifelong learner. He’s becoming excited and motivated to do more. Catherine Emerson, Mother on her son’s experience as part of the new Fine Arts Academy at S.H. Crowley Intermediate School Alma Hills, a Young Women’s Leadership Academy teacher, already has seen leadership skills emerge from students, just weeks into the school year. “Some of the quieter girls who probably would never speak up in a mixed class, they’re finding their quiet voice and bringing it out a little bit louder,” Ms. Hills said. “We’re off to a great start. The energy is absolutely phenomenal.” As a Fine Arts Academy math teacher, Ms. Emerson is excited to see what encouraging the naturally creative side in students and giving them an outlet to express themselves will do for their academics. As a mom to an academy student, she quickly saw the impact. After school on the first day of classes, she said her son hugged her and said, “‘Mom, we’re just where we’re supposed to be.’” CROWLEY ISD CONNECTIONS | Fall 2016 5