The Clear Creek Independent School District is setting the stage for the next generation of critical thinkers and collaborators with the Fall 2025 launch of its new STREAM of Innovation initiative. STREAM stands for Space, Technology, Robotics, Engineering, Arts and Medicine.
The first campus for this unique opportunity for students comes as no surprise due to its strategic location. Space Center Intermediate is located on NASA Johnson Space Center property, within walking distance of the anticipated Texas A&M Space Institute and Exploration Park and a short bus ride to Space Center Houston.
“Clear Creek ISD has flourished under the key principle of ensuring the spirit of exploration drives innovation. This unique instructional concept will truly reimagine the intermediate school experience,” said Karen Engle, Superintendent of Schools. “Two years ago, we brought together a diverse group of creative minds–teachers, parents, students and business leaders. We met behind the gates at NASA with the goal of developing a bold vision for the graduates of 2030, who at the time were in 5th grade. The STREAM of Innovation is part of that important work,” Engle added.
The STREAM program is an integrated approach to learning that sparks curiosity and encourages students to explore subjects driving today’s global economy. From space exploration to biotechnology, students are exposed to a range of disciplines that will serve them well in their future endeavors.
“We know these are the areas that will shape the future, and if our students understand them, they’ll succeed in whatever career path they choose,” said Ann Thornton, Space Center Intermediate principal. “We’re giving them the tools to excel, even as early as sixth grade.”
This fall, eighth graders will begin creating STREAM-related projects each semester in their science classes, starting with a focus on biotechnology. These hands-on projects help students apply their learning and build critical skills. The school will offer a robotics and coding elective for seventh-grade students. A Project Lead the Way Engineering Essentials course will allow eighth-grade students to earn high school credit.
As part of this initiative, Space Center Intermediate is also the first public school in Texas to offer the prestigious Cambridge University Math curriculum to sixth-grade students.
“We are excited to offer a world-class math education that prepares our students for success in a variety of fields,” said Stanley Zavala, Director of Advanced Academic and Gifted and Talented Services. “This curriculum, alongside our STREAM program, gives our students a unique advantage as they embark on their academic journeys.”
In addition to academic achievements, Space Center Intermediate is dedicated to developing leadership skills in its students through the Leader in Me program. “This program helps our students become strong leaders not just on campus, but in their communities and beyond,” said Thornton. “We’re shaping tomorrow’s leaders today.” The Leader in Me program is the youth adaptation of Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Space Center Intermediate has been recognized as a national model by Stephen Covey.
Students at Space Center Intermediate also benefit from the school’s experiential learning opportunities, including Cardinal Clubs—semester-long mini-courses chosen by students based on their interests. These clubs, including options like 3D printing, coding, and math games, provide students with additional opportunities for hands-on, passion-driven learning outside the traditional classroom.
“We have a variety of clubs that allow us to explore what we’re passionate about,” said Brooke Stevenson, a student at the school. “It’s a great way to start the day and get excited about learning.”
With innovative programs like STREAM, Cambridge University Math, and experiential learning, the district plans to expand this initiative to all intermediate schools by 2030 and explore a college preparatory program for high school juniors and seniors.
