OSIT's Vision
Our vision is that every student in Nevada will have access and opportunities to experience a high-quality science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education, with the ultimate objective that students are prepared to thrive in the New Nevada economy. Key to realizing this vision is the effort to encourage all schools, with a particular focus on reaching underrepresented groups, to adopt practices that engage and expose students to real-world problem solving, creative design, innovation, critical thinking, and career opportunities through STEM-focused formal and informal education.
OSIT is charged with identifying and awarding recognition to not more than 15 schools in Nevada each year that demonstrate exemplary performance in STEM. These schools are designated as Governor’s STEM Schools and are recognized at an annual recognition event held in Carson City. Designation as a Governor's STEM School denotes that the school meets the highest standards of STEM instruction and is a model for schools around the state. Designations may be used to promote the school.
The mission of the Governor Designated STEM School program is to increase student interest and achievement in the fields of science, engineering, technology, and mathematics, leading students to fulfilling careers in the New Nevada economy.
Apply for the Designation
Designated STEM School Applications are due December 13,
2024.
The Nevada STEM Framework
Also included in the above Designation Action Guide & Application-2025 is the Nevada STEM Framework which contains attributes of a Nevada STEM school. Each attribute contains sub-attributes and descriptors for how the attribute presents across the continuum of schools: exploratory, developing, established, and model. The framework was developed to meet Nevada’s STEM needs and encompass research-based elements of high-quality, successful STEM schools. The Framework can be used as a self-assessment or as a tool to expand STEM education.
Information Sessions
Join OSIT for one of two information sessions this Fall for support with the designation application. During the information session, participants will learn about the Governor Designated STEM School program, application process, and the Governor Designated STEM School Network. OSIT will share tips and advice for developing an application, and will answer any questions. These information sessions are recommended for any K-12 schools in Nevada interested in STEM or becoming designated, for any schools interested in moving up in their designation rating, and for any schools going through the re-designation process. Register via the links below!
Governor's Designated STEM Schools
Model STEM SCHOOLS:
Advanced Technologies Academy - Las Vegas
Lied STEM Academy - Las Vegas
McCaw STEAM Academy - Henderson
Southeast Career Technical Academy - Las Vegas
Southwest Career & Technical Academy - Las Vegas
West Career and Technical Academy - Las Vegas
Established STEM Schools:
Dorothy Lemelson STEM Academy - Reno
Empire Elementary School - Carson City
Incline Elementary School - Incline Village
Incline High School - Incline Village
J. Marlan Walker Elementary School - Henderson
Joseph Neal STEAM Academy - Las Vegas
Kate Smith Elementary School - Sparks
Leavitt Middle School - Las Vegas
Mabel Hoggard Math & Science Magnet School - Las Vegas
Northwest Career and Technical Academy - Las Vegas
Rancho High School - Las Vegas
Roger Gehring Academy of Science and Technology - Las Vegas
The STEM and Medical Academy at Jim Bridger Middle School - North Las Vegas
Walter Bracken STEAM Academy - Las Vegas
Developing STEM School:
Berkeley L. Bunker Elementary School - Las Vegas
Clark High School - Las Vegas
Coral Academy of Science, Sandy Ridge Campus - Henderson
D.L. “Dusty” Dickens Elementary School - North Las Vegas
David E. Norman Elementary School - Ely
Doris French Elementary School – Las Vegas
Frank J. Lamping Elementary School - Henderson
Hyde Park Middle School - Las Vegas
Incline Middle School - Incline Village
Jackpot Combined School - Jackpot
Kenny C. Guinn STEM Academy - Las Vegas
Lomie G. Heard Elementary School - Las Vegas
O'Callaghan Middle School i3 Learn Academy - Las Vegas
Riverview Elementary School - Dayton
Roberta C. Cartwright Elementary School - Las Vegas
Sandra B. Abston Elementary School - Las Vegas
Smithridge STEM Academy - Reno
Somerset Academy, Aliante Campus - North Las Vegas
Theron & Naomi Goynes Elementary School - North Las Vegas
Map of Designated STEM Schools