ABOUT US
Intent to Apply
Complete the intent to apply for the Tennessee STEM School Designation and join a community of innovative educators and students. Intent to apply closes on July 31, 2025.
2025 Designation Cycle Webinars
| Topic | Date & Time | Registration Link or Video Link |
|---|---|---|
| Attribute 1: Infrastructure | Date: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 Time: 3:30pm-4:30pm CST | Link |
| Attribute 2: Curriculum & Instruction | Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025 Time:3:30pm-4:30pm CST | Link |
| Attribute 3 & 4: Professional Development & Achievement | Date: Thursday, August 7, 2025 Time: 3:30pm-4:30pm CST | Link |
| Attribute 5: Community Partnership & Overview | Date: Friday, August 8, 2025 Time: 3:30pm-4:30pm CST | Link |
STEPS TO APPLY
STEP 1
Self-Assessment
Schools complete a self-assessment and Intent to Apply. A TSIN representative will contact them.
STEP 2
Submit Application
Schools will receive information for completing the application process on the Slideroom platform.
STEP 3
School Site Visit
TSIN will contact eligible schools to schedule a tour and panel meeting.
STEP 4
Announcing Designated Schools
Designated schools are celebrated at the annual TN STEM Innovation Summit.
WHY STEM/STE(A)M DESIGNATION?
Tennessee STEM and STE(A)M School Designation was developed to provide a “roadmap” for schools to successfully implement a STEM or STE(A)M education plan at the local level. The tools and resources created define the attributes necessary for a school to create a comprehensive STEM or STE(A)M learning environment for its students. A school that receives Tennessee STEM and STE(A)M School Designation will be recognized by the Tennessee Department of Education for its use of STEM or STE(A)M teaching and learning strategies and serve as a model from which other schools may visit and learn. All K–12 schools serving students in Tennessee are eligible.
HEAR FROM OUR DESIGNATED SCHOOLS
“Bringing STEM education into our curriculum meant that every child gets an opportunity to see that they can contribute to solutions to complex problems. All students are capable of trying and then adjusting based on the results. Their young minds are so creative, and this allows us to tap into that and has resulted in children knowing they have a contribution to offer.”
Heather Wolf – Principal
George Washington Elementary
“STEM education encompasses the skills and experiences needed to navigate our world. It allows students to develop solutions to solve real-world problems while seeing the significant role that they can play in STEM.”
Keyundah Coleman – Principal
John P. Freeman Optional School
“Becoming a STEM Designated School has allowed us to evaluate and improve our previous model and transform our program and practices using a systematic process. Additionally, the STEM designation process has allowed us to expand our program to include more authentic and relevant STEM-focused instruction and experiences to meet the needs of all students and better serve our community. This process has also allowed us to brand our program, clarify our “why,” establish our presence within the community, and build key partnerships.”
Shanna Hensley – Principal
D-B Excel
“We are thrilled to receive the STE(A)M designation, a recognition that celebrates our six-year commitment to transforming high school education at Crosstown High. This designation is not just an accolade; it is a testament to our innovative approach that nurtures holders of foundational knowledge, masters of fundamental literacies, and original thinkers equipped to navigate an uncertain world. By fostering generous collaboration and lifelong learning, we are preparing our students to excel in complex environments and solve the tough problems of tomorrow. This milestone reaffirms our dedication to rethinking and enriching the educational experience for every student.”
Nikki Wallace – Science Department Co-Chair
Crosstown High School
“In the initial planning process, creating a culture of STEAM was at the forefront of our vision for Liberty Creek Elementary. Through collaboration with our community, we are exposing our students to the world of inquiry, curiosity, and creativity as we focus on creating future leaders. Our students are being equipped with tools to not only be successful within the classroom but beyond the walls of our building. We are excited to see the impact STEAM can have on our students in the future.”
Mary Day Reynolds – Principal
Liberty Creek Elementary School