Public Charter Spotlight​

Fort Worth STEAM Academy

Overview

Located in Fort Worth, TX, Fort Worth STEAM Academy is an open-enrollment public charter school dedicated to transforming middle school education for students in grades 6 through 8. Opening its doors in Fall 2026, the academy was founded to address the critical need for high-quality education and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) opportunities on the east side of Fort Worth, where last year less than 20% of middle school students met grade-level standards. With a focus on academic excellence, individualized learning, and a strong sense of community, Fort Worth STEAM Academy is designed to ensure every student is prepared for success in high school and beyond.

Fort Worth STEAM Academy offers a unique educational experience combining rigorous academics with robust support systems. Students benefit from innovative programs such as double literacy classes, separate reading and writing courses, to strengthen communication skills. It also provides a daily  individualized learning block utilizing adaptive technology and small group instruction to meet each student’s needs. By 8th grade, students can earn high school credits in subjects like algebra, biology, and engineering, setting them up for future success.

What sets Fort Worth STEAM Academy apart is its commitment to fostering a safe, structured and joyful school culture where students feel seen, valued and supported. Every day begins with a 15-minute advisory period to build community and develop character traits like respect, empathy and resilience. Weekly celebrations recognize student achievements, building confidence and a sense of belonging. The school also prioritizes career readiness, offering quarterly career hours and partnerships with organizations like American Airlines to expose students to a wide range of professions.

At its core, Fort Worth STEAM Academy is a community-centered school where families play an active role in shaping the student experience. Founding families have the opportunity to provide input on key decisions, from selecting food vendors to choosing the school mascot. Parents also benefit from clear and consistent communication, including weekly reports that keep them informed about their child’s progress. For families seeking a middle school that combines high expectations with real support, Fort Worth STEAM Academy is a beacon of opportunity and growth.

  • Small School Feel: With 15 staff members for 150 students, the school’s 10:1 student-to-staff ratio creates a close-knit school community where every student is known and supported.
  • Double Literacy: Students take separate reading and writing classes daily, building stronger communication skills.
  • High School Credits: By 8th grade, students can earn credits in algebra, biology, and engineering, setting them up for success in high school.
  • Career Exposure: Quarterly career hours and corporate partnerships provide students with insights into various professions, inspiring future aspirations.
  • Individualized Learning: A 65-minute daily block ensures students receive instruction tailored to their academic level, whether they need extra support or advanced challenges.

“Fort Worth STEAM Academy exists because kids deserve a middle school designed for them. Every child is super capable, but it’s about the quality of the school they’re able to access. We’ve built a school that combines high expectations with real support, ensuring students graduate ready for success in high school and beyond.” 

Nicholas Ditto, Founder & Superintendent, Fort Worth STEAM Academy

Student Population

150 6th graders
(growing to 450 by year 3)

Tuition

Free
(open-enrollment public charter school)

School Structure

A strong adult presence and low 10:1 student-to-staff ratio help ensure close supervision, consistent support, and a strong sense of community.

Staff

15 members, including 1 principal, 3 deans, 9 teachers, and 2 operations staff

Application Deadline

June
(first-come, first-served basis after the lottery)

Unique Programs

Double literacy, individualized learning, high school credits, quarterly career hours

Summer 2025 STEAM Camp Outcomes:

• 96% average daily attendance
• Over 94% of students reported increased interest and confidence in STEAM fields
• More than 94% demonstrated measurable skill gains in coding, drone technology, and engineering tasks
• Families rated the camp with a 92 Net Promoter Score (NPS)

About Public Charter Schools

Public charter schools are tuition-free, open-enrollment public schools that have the flexibility to adapt to the educational needs of individual students, while held to strict state academic and financial accountability standards.

Benefits of Public Charter Schools​

Innovative Teaching

Charter schools can adopt new learning technologies and teaching methods.

Appointed School Board Leadership

Appointed school boards of skilled professionals oversee charter schools.

Smaller Class Sizes

Charter schools often have smaller class sizes, which can allow teachers to give more individual attention to each student.

Flexibility

Charter schools can create their own curriculum, teacher training, and discipline policies.

Accountability

Public charter schools must meet high standards for academic and financial performance, and follow federal, state, and local regulations that ensure good governance and student welfare.

Specialized Programs

Charter schools can offer classical education, specialized instruction for students with disabilities, multi-lingual experiences, and/or college preparation courses.

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