From ARMS to ARSA

Ann Richards Middle School opened in 2011 as an energy-efficient, 184,728-square-foot three-story building designed and built according to the Texas Collaborative for High Performance Schools’ (CHPS) code of environmental standards. CHPS standards require the inclusion of energy efficiency, conservation, and design features that promote the sound use of resources. 

In 2016-17, the staff agreed to designate the campus as a STEAM Academy with a focus on science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics with the hopes of setting high standards of learning for all incoming scholars and families, changing the name from Ann Richards Middle School (ARMS) to Ann Richards STEAM Academy (ARSA).  The campus currently educates almost 1,350 students in the Dallas ISD. We currently serve scholars with technology using Blended Learning as well as Social Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum. 

In addition to these academic and athletic programs, the campus offers a variety of after-school activities and programs that support the diverse interests of the scholars, including a state-ranking robotics team, a garden club, and female mentoring program. Ann Richards STEAM Academy has built strong relationships with parents and community. We put the “PLEASANT” in Pleasant Grove!

ARSA Vision

Ann Richards STEAM Academy seeks to be a flagship middle school by empowering trailblazers to excel in our global society. 

ARSA Mission

Every day we develop the whole child.

ARSA Values

Commitment

Collaboration

Creativity

Critical Thinking

STEAM @ ARSA

As a Title 1, low socioeconomic campus in the middle of Pleasant Grove in Dallas, Texas, Ann Richards STEAM Academy seeks to change the narrative of the community and our resident scholars. By introducing the campus to STEAM education and curriculum, we aspire to challenge the cultural norms and expectations of this group of learners by changing the trajectory of their lives through the exposure, discovery, and engagement in STEAM career pathways.