Texas City Independent School District (ISD) opened the doors to the district’s innovative new Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) and Robotics Center, a cutting-edge learning facility serving students in grades K-12. Designed and built by Pfluger Architects and Bartlett Cocke, this exciting project transformed an unused storage building into a lively and engaging space for students to immerse themselves in STEM subjects and host robotics competitions.
With this new facility dedicated to enhancing STEM education, Texas City ISD has an immersive center for innovation and learning with robotics at its core. Accessible to all students in the district, the building includes an open, flexible arena to host robotics competitions and a control room for students to manage cameras and audio during tournaments. The facility also includes a fabrication lab for metal and woodworking, classrooms for advanced engineering courses, and a maker space for elementary students to explore STEM subjects. Large bay windows and overhead and sliding doors flood the spaces with natural light and create an inviting, open atmosphere. Each design element and material used throughout the space is thoughtfully crafted to support students’ curiosity and growth.
“Working with Texas City ISD to bring the STEM Center to life has been a remarkable journey,” said Raleigh Sullivan, managing principal of Pfluger’s Houston office. “Their vision and leadership significantly contributed to this project’s success. We’re proud to have contributed to a space where so much learning and discovery will unfold.”
Marathon Petroleum Corporation, a local industry partner, contributed $1 million to the project, which was paid for by a portion of Texas City’s $158.6 million 2022 bond package. An employer for STEM careers, Marathon actively participated in shaping the building and curriculum to enhance robotics education and programming and provide opportunities for students to explore potential career fields.
“This state-of-the-art facility, the first achievement from the 2022 bond referendum, is the result of collaborative efforts, dedication and the unwavering support of our community,” said TCISD Superintendent Dr. Melissa Duarte. “I want to thank the architects at Pfluger and the team at Bartlett-Cocke for bringing this dream to life. Together, we have created an environment that will not only satisfy the curiosity of our students but will also serve as a catalyst for stimulating creativity and advancing critical thinking skills.”
The district’s award-winning robotics team will host its first robotics tournament at the new Texas City ISD Marathon STEM and Robotics Center on Feb. 10. This will be a highly anticipated event for students and the community.
