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Getting ready for a new school year
Two Hawks Nest STEAM Academy students work on a math problem in class.

School is back in session, and we are pleased to welcome our students, families, teachers, and all employees to the 2026-2027 academic year.  It is our hope that everyone experiences a productive, meaningful, and successful year.

N.C. STEM School of Distinction
Students and staff at Hawks Nest STEAM Academy celebrate their recognition as a North Carolina STEM School of Distinction.

Hawks Nest STEAM Academy has earned recognition as a state-level model school for STEM education. It is one of only 10 elementary schools in North Carolina to receive this prestigious honor, highlighting the school’s commitment to science, technology, engineering and math.

Want to learn more? Watch our schoolwide celebration!

Hawks Nest STEAM Academy
Hawks Nest STEAM Academy teacher Jenna Markwith poses with two kids in class.

Congratulations to our fifth grade teacher Jenna Markwith. She was chosen as a top five finalist for the 2026-2027 Gaston County Schools Teacher of the Year award.

Watch her Finalist of the Year Video

Providing care for students at school
The image depicts a smartphone screen displaying a doctor's portrait, surrounded by medical icons and the Kintegra Health logo.

Thanks to our partnership with Kintegra Health, we offer a telehealth clinic here at our school. Students, who are experiencing a minor illness or condition, can be seen by a medical provider virtually. This allows us to provide care for students without them having to leave school to go to the doctor.

GET INFO: Telehealth at our school 

Stay Updated

Follow Hawks Nest STEAM Academy on Facebook for the latest updates and news.

Labor Day

Monday, September 7 is a holiday for students and employees. All schools and central department offices will be closed on Labor Day.

Board of Education Committee Meetings

The Gaston County Board of Education’s Operations Committee, Curriculum and Instruction Committee, and Policy Committee will meet Monday, September 14 at 12:30 p.m., 3:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m., respectively. The public is invited to attend. 

Ron L. Ensley grants program for teachers

Teachers are encouraged to participate in the Ron L. Ensley grants program. Click here to complete the online application.  The grants are presented by the Gaston County Education Foundation as a way to fund innovative classroom lessons and projects. The application deadline is Sunday, September 14.

Why Hawks Nest STEAM Academy?

Four reasons why we are the right school for your child.

Wonderful Staff

The staff at Hawks Nest is kind, helpful and always ready to support students. They work together to make sure every child feels welcome and ready to learn.

A teacher works with a kindergarten student during his assessment.

N.C. Stem School of Distinction

Hawks Nest is one of 10 elementary schools in the state to be honored as a state-level model school for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education.

Four children sitting on the floor, each holding a laptop or tablet device, with various artwork and school supplies visible in the background.

Fine Arts

We proudly offers a full-time theater program where students from all grade levels come together to star in exciting productions.

Students participate in a rehearsal for the school's musical.

Clubs and Activities

We offer a variety of clubs and activities for students, including Robotics, Battle of the Books, and Math Masters. Hawks Nest is also home to the Girls Who Code club, the only club of its kind in Gaston County Schools.

Two students program a robot during the RoboGASTON competition.

Our Calendar

Check out the upcoming events at Hawks Nest STEAM Academy.