Specialized Campuses
Discover the Future of Education at Donna ISD
Donna Independent School District is redefining educational excellence with a focus on innovation, opportunity, and community-driven growth. Guided by our commitment to "Building a Legacy," we are proud to introduce an exciting transformation in our district: the launch of three new specialized academies for the 2025-2026 school year. These state-of-the-art campuses will focus on arts, science, and sports, offering modern, secure, and innovative facilities that nurture creativity, curiosity, and teamwork.
This initiative stems from an extensive effort by our Innovation Design Team, who worked closely with teachers, administrators, and families to evaluate enrollment patterns, operational needs, and community aspirations. After months of research, campus visits, and parent surveys, we’re enhancing our offerings to better align with student interests and future career pathways.
These new academies join Donna ISD’s four other specialized campuses, creating a network of schools designed to inspire students with programs tailored to their passions and goals. Explore how Donna ISD is building a brighter future for our students, families, and community by learning more about our specialized campuses here.
Campuses
- J.S. Adame Arts Academy (PreK 3 – 5th Grades) (New)
- A.M. Ochoa Primary Science and Sports Academy (PreK 3-2nd Grades) (New)
- C. Stainke Intermediate Science & Sports Academy (3rd-5th grades) (New)
- M. Rivas Primary Discovery Academy (PreK 3 – 2nd Grades)
- J.W. Caceres Intermediate Discovery Academy (3rd – 5th Grade)
- Capt. D. Salinas S.T.E.A.M. Academy (PreK 3 – 5th Grades)
- D.M. Sauceda S.T.E.A.M. Academy (6th-8th Grades)
J.S. Adame Arts Academy (PreK 3 – 5th Grades) (New)
J. S. Adame Fine Arts Academy (PreK 3 – 5th Grades) (New)
At J.S. Adame Arts Academy, we believe every student deserves an arts-rich education that inspires creativity, fosters self-expression, and prepares them for bright futures.
Unleash Your Potential in Music
Explore your passion for music through piano, guitar, mariachi, drumline, and choir. Whether you’re looking to perform, compose, or appreciate music, our educators will guide students in mastering essential skills like listening, creating, and reading and writing music.
Elevate Your Creativity in Visual Arts
Dive into drawing, painting, digital art, 2D/3D art, and sculpture. Students will refine their artistic capabilities while learning to sketch, describe, and create with confidence and precision.
Take the Stage in Theatre and Dance
In theatre, students can participate in musical theatre, creative drama, and set design, while dance enthusiasts can choose from general dance, ballet, dance team, and folklórico. These programs help students communicate through movement and dialogue, developing vibrant performance skills and artistic expression.
Why Choose J.S. Adame Arts Academy?
- High-Quality Instruction: Learn from specialized educators who create dynamic and engaging learning experiences.
- Personal Expression & Self-Discovery: Discover your unique voice and build confidence through the arts.
- Improved Academic Performance: Studies show a strong fine arts program enhances core academic achievement.
- Specialized Learning Spaces: Benefit from facilities tailored to support artistic growth and creative exploration.
- Early Exposure: Begin your arts journey early, building a foundation for lifelong success.
- Enrichment Opportunities: Engage in activities that foster adaptability, productivity, and lifelong learning skills.
Prepare to ignite your creativity and unlock your full potential at J.S. Adame Arts Academy—where the arts come alive!
A.M. Ochoa Primary Science and Sports Academy (PreK 3-2nd Grades) (New)
A.M. Ochoa Primary Science and Sports Academy (PreK 3-2nd Grades) (New)
At A.M. Ochoa Primary Science & Sports Academy, we believe learning through play is essential to a child’s growth. Play nurtures creativity, problem-solving skills, and language development while fostering social connections and emotional well-being.
Innovative Programs that Spark Curiosity
- Science Exploration: Dive into environmental science, engineering, and outdoor learning integrated into core subjects to inspire curiosity and critical thinking.
- Sports Focus: Daily physical education encourages motor skill development, teamwork, and lifelong healthy habits. Advanced P.E. includes competitive sports for students who enjoy challenging themselves.
- Character Development: Our Capturing Kids’ Hearts program builds a positive and uplifting school culture, fostering confidence and leadership.
Why Choose A.M. Ochoa Primary Science & Sports Academy?
- Safe and Nurturing Environment: We provide a secure and welcoming space where children can thrive.
- Dual Language Program: Our bilingual education model promotes academic success and fluency in two languages.
- Creative & Engaging Curriculum: Hands-on science and outdoor learning spark imagination and a love for discovery.
- Enhanced Outdoor Learning Spaces: Explore our teaching and learning garden, designed for active, experiential learning.
- Experienced Educators: Certified teachers deliver personalized support and motivation through positive affirmations.
Enrichment Opportunities Beyond the Classroom
- Participate in the ACE Afterschool Program, offering extended learning and fun activities.
- Enjoy classrooms designed for early childhood education with a focus on hands-on, engaging instruction.
At A.M. Ochoa Primary Science & Sports Academy, we’re shaping young minds by combining creativity, exploration, and play—building a foundation for lifelong learning and success!
C. Stainke Intermediate Science & Sports Academy (3rd-5th grades) (New)
C. Stainke Intermediate Science & Sports Academy (3rd-5th grades) (New)
At C. Stainke Intermediate Science & Sports Academy, we’re redefining education by blending outdoor learning, physical activity, and academic excellence. Students learn beyond the classroom, engaging in hands-on experiences that nurture the mind, body, and spirit.
Innovative Programs to Inspire and Engage
- Outdoor Learning: Experience the benefits of nature-based education, where core classes integrate outdoor connections. Research shows that learning in nature boosts engagement, fosters exploration, and improves student well-being.
- Physical Activity & Athletics: Our specialized athletics program emphasizes teamwork, skill-building, and health awareness. Physical activity enhances academic achievement by improving brain function, critical thinking, and emotional regulation.
- Science Emphasis: Dive into problem-based engineering tasks and environmental science projects that allow students to explore real-world concepts within their school community.
Why Choose C. Stainke Intermediate Science & Sports Academy?
- Academics: High-quality instruction in core subjects ensures students are prepared for STAAR mastery and future success.
- Outdoor Learning: Engaging opportunities to explore the natural world bring environmental science and core subjects to life.
- Critical Thinking: Hands-on engineering challenges develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills, preparing students for collaboration and communication.
- Athletics: A whole-body health and wellness focus helps students develop lifelong fitness habits and specialized skills for future athletic competition.
At C. Stainke Intermediate Science & Sports Academy, students are empowered to thrive academically, explore the outdoors, and build a foundation for lifelong success. Join us in creating well-rounded learners who are ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow!
M. Rivas Primary Discovery Academy (PreK 3 – 2nd Grades)
M. Rivas Primary Discovery Academy (PreK 3 – 2nd Grades)
At M. Rivas Primary Discovery Academy, we inspire young minds through a Dual Language Pre-K3 to 2nd-grade program that prioritizes a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment. Recognized as the recipient of the prestigious 2024 H-E-B Excellence in Education Outstanding Early Childhood Award, we focus on the whole child—social-emotional, physical, academic, and language development—to foster a lifelong love of learning.
.Innovative Learning Programs
- Dual Language Curriculum: Students thrive in a bilingual environment, enhancing language development and academic success.
- Discovery-Based Learning: Unique discovery rooms allow students to explore, imagine, build, and question through self-guided, hands-on activities. This approach nurtures curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking.
- Thematic Curriculum: Our campus-developed thematic curriculum integrates subjects, making real-world connections while engaging students in meaningful, play-based learning experiences.
- Specials and Electives: Coding, robotics, music, art, physical education, and technology expand learning opportunities beyond the classroom.
Why M. Rivas Primary Discovery Academy?
- Certified Educators: Every classroom features a certified teacher and educational assistant, ensuring personalized attention for every child.
- Collaborative Teaching: Teachers design thematic lessons aligned with state standards, emphasizing read-alouds, small group instruction, and numeracy games.
- Social-Emotional Growth: Evidence-based strategies like Capturing Kids’ Hearts, PBIS, and PAX help students build self-regulation, confidence, and meaningful relationships.
- Family and Community Partnerships: Literacy nights, academic parades, and events like Grandparents’ Day bring families into the learning journey. Partnerships with organizations like Texas A&M University and Girl Scouts of Greater South Texas enrich the student experience.
Measuring Success
- Data-Driven Progress: Using tools like Amplify and iReady Math, we track student growth, identify learning needs, and celebrate achievements.
- Celebrating Milestones: Six-week celebrations for academics, attendance, character, and leadership reinforce student success and pride.
- Proven Impact: Students in kindergarten through 2nd grade have demonstrated measurable progress in foundational skills, showcasing the program’s effectiveness.
Building a Strong Foundation
- Health and Nutrition Education: Partnering with Texas A&M, students learn about healthy eating, while parents engage in cooking demonstrations and earn certificates.
- Leadership Development: Girls in kindergarten through 2nd grade build leadership and teamwork skills through the Girl Scouts of Greater South Texas.
- Career and Community Connections: Presentations from local fire and police departments, as well as high school Career and Technology Education programs, prepare students for future success.
At M. Rivas Primary Discovery Academy, we believe it “takes a village” to raise and educate a child. Together, with our families and community, we are shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Join us and experience the difference of a school where curiosity, collaboration, and community thrive!
J.W. Caceres Intermediate Discovery Academy (3rd – 5th Grade)
J.W. Caceres Intermediate Discovery Academy (3rd – 5th Grades)
At J.W. Caceres Intermediate Discovery Academy, we specialize in providing an exceptional education for students in Grades 3-5. With a curriculum tailored to meet the unique needs of these critical learning years, our dynamic programs foster critical thinking, creativity, and character development—preparing students to lead and make a positive impact in their community.
Students from M. Rivas Primary Discovery Academy (Pre-K 3 through 2nd grade), located right next door, seamlessly transition to Caceres for a specialized educational experience designed to build on their early childhood foundation.
Innovative Learning Programs
- Robotics and Coding: Students master programming and engineering concepts, building skills that ignite a passion for technology and innovation.
- Agricultural Science: A rare and immersive opportunity for elementary students to care for animals such as rabbits, turtles, and pigs while learning about their life cycles, fostering responsibility and respect for nature.
- Fine Arts: This unique academy offers STEM-related programs such as robotics and coding together with fine arts disciplines, including music, dance, theatre, and visual arts. These programs inspire creativity, build confidence, and allow students to express themselves through performances and projects.
- Life Skills Development: A dedicated unit provides tailored support, empowering all students to thrive academically and socially.
Extracurricular Offerings
- R.E.A.D.Y. Program: An after-school sports program for 5th graders, introducing the basics of tennis, basketball, volleyball, soccer, and kickball to develop teamwork and physical skills.
- A.R.T.E.S. Program: Promoting artistic expression and creativity through hands-on projects and performances.
- Destination Imagination (DI): Encouraging teamwork and creative problem-solving in exciting, competitive settings.
- Girls Who CODE: Empowering young girls to excel in the tech field by developing programming skills and building confidence.
- Mariachi: Celebrating culture and tradition through music, with opportunities for performance and community engagement.
- Junior FFA and Ag Science Clubs: Instilling leadership and agricultural expertise through engaging, real-world activities.
- Battle of the Books and UIL ACES: Promoting academic excellence through competitive reading challenges and extracurricular academic events.
Why J.W. Caceres Intermediate Discovery Academy?
- Specialized Curriculum: Designed specifically for Grades 3-5, ensuring instruction meets the developmental needs of these critical learning years.
- Seamless Transition: Students from M. Rivas Primary Discovery Academy continue their academic journey in a familiar and supportive environment.
- Advanced Opportunities: From robotics to agriculture, students engage in specialized programs that inspire curiosity and creativity.
- Comprehensive Support: Programs like Dyslexia and Gifted & Talented ensure every child has the tools to succeed.
- Free Breakfast and Lunch: Providing nutritious meals daily to fuel learning and achievement.
At J.W. Caceres Intermediate Discovery Academy, innovation and discovery shape your child's future, creating leaders ready to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Capt. D. Salinas S.T.E.A.M. Academy (PreK 3 – 5th Grades)
Capt. D. Salinas S.T.E.A.M. Academy (PreK 3 – 5th Grades)
At Capt. D. Salinas S.T.E.A.M. Academy, students are leaders in innovation and creativity! Our campus offers a comprehensive Pre-K3 to 5th-grade program that combines rigorous academics with real-world experiences in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM). We cultivate a supportive, engaging environment that empowers students to excel and prepares them for a future of endless possibilities.
Innovative Learning Programs
- STEAM-Focused Curriculum: Through Project Lead the Way (PLTW), students engage in hands-on activities that build critical thinking and problem-solving skills while exploring the interconnectedness of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math.
- Real-Life Biology Lessons: Even our youngest learners dive into advanced science topics like biology by participating in the dissection of frogs. This unique hands-on experience fosters curiosity and lays the foundation for a deeper understanding of scientific concepts.
- MiniMetropolis Program: This innovative program helps students develop social, academic, and real-life skills. By building and managing their own mini city, students explore various careers and community settings, preparing them to be responsible, informed citizens.
- Esports and Robotics: Students thrive in cutting-edge esports and robotics programs, learning teamwork, strategy, and technical skills in an exciting, competitive environment.
- Creative Enrichment: Coding, art, music, and technology classes inspire students to think outside the box while exploring their unique talents.
Why Capt. D. Salinas S.T.E.A.M. Academy?
- Vision for Excellence: Our vision is for all students to reach the highest level of academic success through a rigorous and supportive learning environment aligned with state and national standards. Together, our administration, staff, and community strive to provide students with the tools to achieve their full potential in a safe and nurturing setting.
- Certified Educators: Every classroom is led by certified teachers committed to fostering academic excellence and personal growth.
- Dual Language Classes: Students develop bilingual proficiency, enhancing cognitive development and opening doors to global opportunities.
- In-School Tutoring: Tailored support helps students achieve their academic goals and succeed in challenging subjects.
- Technology for All: Every student has access to a personal device, ensuring digital readiness and equitable learning opportunities.
Additional Features and Services
- Life Skills Unit: Dedicated programs focus on helping students with special needs achieve personal independence and academic growth.
- Communities in Schools: On-campus support services address social and emotional needs, ensuring every student feels valued and supported.
- Dyslexia and Migrant Services: Targeted programs provide specialized instruction and resources for students with unique learning needs.
- Gifted & Talented (GT) Program: Advanced learners engage in challenging projects and activities that foster innovation and critical thinking.
- Restoring Elementary Athletics in Donna’s Youth (R.E.A.D.Y.) Program: This after-school initiative provides sports activities for 5th graders. Students learn the basics of tennis, basketball, volleyball, kickball, and soccer, building teamwork, discipline, and foundational athletic skills.
- Indoor Gym and P.E.: A state-of-the-art gym promotes physical health and teamwork through diverse physical education activities.
- Free Breakfast and Lunch: Nutritious meals are provided to all students, ensuring they are ready to learn and succeed.
At Capt. D. Salinas S.T.E.A.M. Academy, we are shaping the leaders, thinkers, and innovators of tomorrow. Join us on our mission to inspire excellence and build a brighter future for every child!
D.M. Sauceda S.T.E.A.M. Academy (6th-8th Grades)
D.M. Sauced S.T.E.A.M. Academy (6th-8th Grades)
At D.M. Sauceda S.T.E.A.M. Academy, we specialize in providing an exceptional education for students in Grades 6-8. With a curriculum tailored to meet the unique needs of middle school learners, our dynamic programs encourage critical thinking, creativity, and character development, preparing students to excel academically and lead in a global society.
Innovative Learning Programs
- STEAM Forensic Science: Students explore the fascinating world of forensic science, developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they work with real-world crime scene investigations and evidence analysis.
- STEAM Engineering/Robotics: Students are introduced to engineering and robotics, gaining hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies and preparing for future careers in these high-demand fields.
- Project Lead The Way: A hands-on, project-based curriculum that fosters creativity and collaboration, helping students solve real-world problems through innovation.
- AVID: The AVID program equips students with the tools they need for academic success, focusing on college readiness, organization, and critical thinking.
- Fine Arts: Our comprehensive fine arts program offers students the opportunity to explore their creative side through Choir, Band, Dance, and Art. These programs build confidence, artistic expression, and creativity, preparing students for success both in and out of the classroom.
Extracurricular Offerings
- Cheerleading: A competitive and spirited team that promotes school pride and unity while building teamwork, coordination, and leadership skills.
- Gardening Club: Students learn about sustainable practices, horticulture, and environmental stewardship by cultivating plants and maintaining the school garden.
- JROTC: A program focused on developing leadership, discipline, and citizenship, while instilling a strong sense of responsibility and teamwork in students.
- National Junior Honor Society: A prestigious organization that recognizes outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and community service, encouraging students to make a positive impact.
- Athletics: A wide variety of sports programs, including basketball, soccer, and track, that help students develop physical fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
- Student Council: A platform for student leadership where students take on roles of responsibility to organize school activities, events, and serve as a voice for their peers.
- Art Club: A creative space where students express themselves through various art forms, including painting, sculpture, and drawing, fostering imagination and artistic skills.
- Photography Club: A group dedicated to the art of photography, teaching students how to capture images, edit photos, and explore creative photography techniques.
- UIL: Students participate in various academic competitions, including mathematics, spelling, science, and history, developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Extreme Gamers Club: A community for students who enjoy gaming, where they can collaborate, compete, and develop teamwork and strategic thinking through video games.
- Robotics: A hands-on club where students design, build, and program robots, participating in competitions and learning valuable STEM skills.
- Spanish Club: A club focused on exploring Spanish language and culture through fun activities, games, and community service projects.
Why D.M. Sauceda S.T.E.A.M. Academy?
- Specialized Curriculum: Our academic programs are designed to foster creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking in all students, preparing them for high school and beyond.
- Forensic Science Focus: Our unique forensic science program provides students with an opportunity to engage in real-world crime solving, building skills in analysis, investigation, and science.
- Advanced Learning Opportunities: From robotics to fine arts, our students engage in specialized programs that inspire curiosity, creativity, and innovation.
- Comprehensive Support: We offer programs like AVID to ensure all students are equipped for success, both academically and socially.
- Free Breakfast and Lunch: Providing nutritious meals to fuel learning and academic achievement for all students.
At D.M. Sauceda S.T.E.A.M. Academy, we are committed to providing an environment where students discover their passion, develop their skills, and become leaders ready to make an impact on the world.