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NEW-Starke Elementary Magnet STEM+Arts Program Application

Logo of Starke Stem

Volusia County Schools is proud to announce the launch of its first-ever elementary magnet program at Edith I. Starke Elementary School in DeLand next year!

The innovative program, focusing on STEM + Arts, will open in the 2025–2026 school year for students in grades K-2.

To introduce the community to the new program, VCS and Starke Elementary invite families and community members to attend a Community and Prospective Parent Information Night on: Monday, May 5, at 5:30 p.m. at Starke Elementary, located at 730 S Parsons Ave, DeLand, FL 32720.

Applications for the program will open May 5th at 8am, you may also apply in person on site at the Community and Prospective Parent Information Night on Monday, May 5, at 5:30 p.m. School Choice will be there to assist families.

To apply online:  http://tinyurl.com/StarkeMagnetApp

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QR Code for Starke Elementary Application

Admissions:

  • Elementary applicants applying for kindergarten must be five years old on or before September 1, 2025.
  • Only one application per student is permitted.
  • Students accepted into the Magnet program do not need to re-apply yearly. 
  • Transportation is not provided by Volusia County Schools. 
  • Students can not have excessive absences or tardies (6 or more un-excused absences or tardies in one grading period).
  • Students must follow the Code of Conduct and treat every person with dignity and respect. 
  • Students must maintain acceptable Grades. 

*Parents will be notified of their status via email. Applicants who are offered a seat in the program must register at the school. Applicants who were not offered a seat due to program capacity will be placed on a waiting list. If a Magnet seat becomes available, applicants will be notified via email or a phone call.

STEM + Arts represents a cutting-edge educational model that combines rigorous science, technology, engineering, and math instruction with creative, real-world problem-solving through design thinking. The program’s mission is to foster a cooperative environment that nurtures innovation, critical thinking, and creative design—offering all students opportunities for meaningful, future-ready learning.

Key Features of STEM + Arts include:

  • Integrated core benchmarks with arts-based learning
  • Student-centered, real-world problem solving
  • Emphasis on teamwork, communication, and creativity
  • Research-backed practices that enhance engagement and understanding
  • Use of industry-relevant technology and concepts, including:

                 Robotics

                  Architecture & Structural Design

                  Meteorology

                  Coding

                  Electronics

                  Measurement Tools

                  Raster Animation

                  Vector-Based Design

“STEM + Arts is more than a program—it’s an approach to learning that prepares students to become global problem-solvers,” said Superintendent Dr. Carmen Balgobin. “VCS is excited to offer this innovative opportunity to our youngest learners in a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility at Edith I. Starke Elementary next year.”

STEM + Arts classrooms are active, hands-on and filled with energy. Students work collaboratively to solve challenges, build resilience, and develop the 21st-century skills needed for success in school and beyond.

For more information about applying, please contact School Choice at: 

Schoolchoice@groups.volusia.k12.fl.us or by phone, at 386-734-7190 Ext. 50911 or 50911

To inquire about the STEM program please contact: 

Ms. Jessica Aivazis                                                                    Amy Monahan                                     

Starke Elementary Principal                                                   K-12 STEM Specialist

jaaivazi@volusia.k12.fl.us                                                       ammonaha@volusia.k12.fl.us

 

 

 

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