The accessibility of STEM classes offered by the district opens new doors for students by providing opportunities that are often inaccessible in other school districts. As this community works to break down barriers in gender equity, these classes are leveling the playing field and inspiring a new generation of female innovators, scientists, and engineers.
“I think it’s really awesome because it provides classes without the pressure of being in college. It just allows you to explore a lot of opportunities that other schools don’t really have, so you can decide if you like it or not,” Mikayla Boganwright (12) said.
Opportunities like these are helpful, especially for students still figuring out where their interests lie. With an assortment of subjects available, students can test out different career paths and gain hands-on experience using the learning curriculum provided. Teachers in the district are also noticing the impact, particularly when it comes to encouraging students to get involved in activities surrounding their passions.
“There are so many options available now to get any kiddo, but particularly girls, to get them involved. There’s more clubs that are there. There’s dual credit classes that we have here. You can go through engineering or robotics, or you can go the classical science method, or you can go into health science. There’s so many different options here that make it so much more accessible, “ Mrs. Lavastida, chemistry teacher, said.
As both an alumna and an educator, Lavastida offers insight into the changes happening within the district. Comparing her own high school experience to that of current students shows the increased promotion of STEM education and acts as evidence that the new support system matters.
“[My mom] is a respiratory therapist for the NICU, so I was surrounded by powerful women in STEM fields. I was never discouraged from being in STEM,” said Boganwright. “If for some reason you think you shouldn’t be in there because you’re a girl, then like, just search up different research papers for what you’re interested in because there’s so many powerful women who have made so many big accomplishments in their respective fields alongside men.”
For students like Boganwright, seeing women succeed in science and technology fields plays an important role in building confidence. Representation, especially in industries where women have historically been underrepresented, is important. When young girls see women working in STEM roles-whether it’s through a family member or teacher-it can send the message that they too can succeed by pursuing their interests.
“I was, in fact, terrible. and I had the doubt that I couldn’t do it. And, you know, I couldn’t pass a math class, and I barely got through science, and I graduated from here barely by my teeth. And it was a struggle for me,” said Lavastida. “And so for me, it’s showing them all of the different paths that you can solve a problem. Because if I can do it, anybody can do it. And so it’s just mind over matter.”
Lavastida’s story reminds students that overcoming academic challenges is possible, especially with determination and the right support. As Wylie ISD continues to broaden its STEM programs and create an environment where all students, especially girls, are encouraged to explore their interests, success in science and technology careers becomes more attainable for those seeking relative jobs in the future.