Dishman Eagles soar to a new NEST
Dishman Elementary will soon receive a Cardinal NEST and have a Lamar University alum return to assist as an ambassador of LU.
The NEST (Navigating Excellence Success and Triumph) is an innovative, high-tech learning lab for students to engage and explore reading and STEAM. A long time LU donor is making the NEST possible at Dishman which joins Pietzsch-MacArthur, Blanchette, Charlton-Pollard, Amelia, Martin and Fletcher as Beaumont ISD NEST campuses.
Principal Kareem Nelson served as assistant principal at Blanchette when the second NEST was brought to life. “He is unique and experienced as he assisted with the development and implementation of a NEST,” said LU Executive Director Dr. Teresa Simpson. “We look forward to working with Mr. Nelson as he brings his ideas, leadership and vision to his new campus for the LU/BISD business partnership.” 
Nelson said his leadership team is ready to work with their partners to begin the construction process and implement the plan on how they will utilize the NEST next school year.
“I know first hand the amazing benefits of having the Cardinal NEST and this partnership with Lamar. Our students are in for a treat,” said Nelson. “The artistic design, technology features and academic components will be a great addition to our campus. Dishman Elementary is appreciative and thankful to the donors for this gracious gift.”
Dr. Anita Frank, BISD Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Education, agrees that the partnership with LU has been a huge benefit to the District. “Each NEST provides an innovative learning space which creates an engaging environment to help broaden students' awareness and interest in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM),” she said. “I am so excited that BISD and Lamar are working together to prepare our next generation.”
Also unique to Dishman, the recipient of the 2021 Nancy Evans Memorial Scholarship is an alumni of the campus. Taylor Cox, the first West Brook High School graduate to receive the scholarship, will begin her education at LU in the fall.
“Like all Nancy Evans Memorial Scholars, she will serve her elementary campus as a Student Success Ambassador through Cardinal SOAR,” said Simpson. “Taylor attended Dishman Elementary, so there is a special relationship with the campus. Eagle Today…Cardinals Tomorrow.”
Building will begin on the Dishman Cardinal NEST this summer with a ribbon cutting ceremony set for the fall of 2021.