(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – Oct. 22, 2026) — Young Women’s STEAM Research & Preparatory Academy (YWA) will welcome approximately 150 eighth-grade girls from across El Paso ISD on Tuesday, Nov. 10, for its annual STEAM Conference, a student-led event that introduces young women to opportunities in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics as they prepare to enter high school.
Students from 15 El Paso ISD PK-8 and middle school campuses will be invited to participate in a full day of hands-on learning, career exploration and conversations with professionals in STEAM-related fields.
A defining feature of the conference is that YWA high school students will lead the learning experience. Approximately 20 classrooms across the campus will be transformed into interactive STEAM spaces, where YWA students will facilitate hands-on activities for visiting eighth graders.
Participants will rotate through five STEAM sessions, exploring a variety of disciplines throughout the morning. The conference will also feature a STEAM Career Fair and panel discussions, giving students opportunities to meet professionals, explore career pathways and learn about the possibilities available to women in STEAM fields.
“We want eighth-grade girls to see themselves in these spaces before they even enter high school,” said YWA Principal Jennifer Arias. “What makes this day especially powerful is that they will see other young women—not much older than they are—leading the rooms, teaching the activities and showing them what is possible.”
The conference will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026, at Young Women’s STEAM Research & Preparatory Academy.
Each El Paso ISD PK-8 and middle school campus has been allocated up to 10 spots for eighth-grade girls. Families of current El Paso ISD eighth graders interested in participating should contact their campus principal for information about being considered for their school's delegation.
Students outside El Paso ISD
Eighth-grade girls from the El Paso community who are not currently enrolled in El Paso ISD may submit an interest form to be considered for available conference seats. Participation is subject to space availability, and families are responsible for transportation to and from YWA.
The YWA STEAM Conference is supported through the school's partnership with the Young Women’s Preparatory Network, which works to expand educational opportunities for young women and prepare students for college, careers and leadership.