“ STEM is the future . If you can get into a STEM program like Jerry Knight where kids are encouraged to think outside the box , I would say go for it .”
The Jerry Knight STEM Academy is an application-based program . For more information about the process , visit www . mansfieldisd . org / choice . Applications open in December for the 2024-25 school year .
JERRY KNIGHT STEM ACADEMY PLEASES PARENTS , CHALLENGES STUDENTS
For eighth-grader Audrey Atkinson , she doubted whether the Jerry Knight STEM Academy was the right place for her .
Both Colin and Christopher are bright learners , and the Academy gives them the opportunity to challenge themselves .
“ Bridge camp was scary . It ’ s the first thing you do here , and I didn ’ t know if this is where I fit . I didn ’ t know anyone here ,” Audrey said . “ But the designers ( teachers ) help you break out of your shell . The things they teach you make it easier to handle STEM .”
Audrey is thriving at the Jerry Knight STEM Academy , which is an advanced academic program designed to provide a rigorous and focused course of study emphasizing science , technology , engineering and math ( STEM ).
The mission of the Academy is to give learners a voice and choice to explore , create and innovate within real-world situations . Coursework , taught by designers , is advanced and integrates project and problembased learning with open learning environments . The campus educates students in grades 6-8 .
Parents Cindy and Christian Agyei have placed both their sons , Colin and Christopher , in the program . Both parents are pharmacists , so their children are used to hearing their parents have STEM-related conversations about their shared profession .
“ Christopher is a very organized , smart kid . He ’ s a little bit shy , but when he started school his personality changed a little bit ,” Cindy said . “ He adapted a little bit better compared to when he was in private school . He said he learned more stuff , experiencing the material in class better .”
“ With the guidance of the designers , they can be ahead ,” Christian said . “ It ’ s very advantageous for the kids who want to know more .”
“ STEM is the future . If you can get into a STEM program like Jerry Knight where kids are encouraged to think outside the box , I would say go for it .”
CHRISTIAN AGYEI Parent of Jerry Knight STEM Academy Students Christopher and Colin
The Academy gives students college-level experience by allowing them to work independently , learn in an openconcept environment , and work with fellow students in groups , called pods . The opportunity to work in pods has given students like Audrey the chance to make lasting friendships .
“ I have made countless memories outside of school and inside of school ,” Audrey said . “ Even just things at the lunch table , I still remember some days exactly what happened because of how hard I laughed during those days .”
Students even learn life skills , including how to pay bills .
“ I wish when I was in school that was a part of the curriculum ,” Cindy said . “ Now my kids get to experience that , and I ’ m very grateful for that .”
For anyone who is considering applying for the Jerry Knight STEM Academy , they should , according to the Agyei family .
“ STEM is the future ,” Christian said . “ If you can get into a STEM program like Jerry Knight where kids are encouraged to think outside the box , I would say go for it .”
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