Starting today, Dallas is hosting STEM Solutions 2012, a leadership summit that aims to close the gap between education and jobs in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). More than 50 organizations representing various industries and educational institutions are taking part in the conference, which runs through June 29 at the Dallas Sheraton Hotel and is hosted by U.S. News & World Report and Innovate+Educate and STEMConnector.

The three-day event features sessions on careers, technology, and education—and some big-name speakers, including NBA star Kareem Abdul-Jabbar; Woody L. Hunt, chairman and CEO of Hunt Cos.; and Tom Luce, chairman of the National Math + Science Initiative.

Meanwhile, one North Texas residential community is doing its part to support STEM education. The Tribute, a 1,500-acre masterplanned development along the shores of Lake Lewisville, will soon house a K-8 STEM Academy. The Little Elm ISD Board of Trustees approved plans for the school last week. It also approved $15 million in new bond debt for its construction, aided by Matthews Southwest, developer of The Tribute.

About 18 weeks of research, including site visits to other schools across the state, went into the decision, said Sally Coleman, LEISD board president. Slated to open in 2015, the academy will address the need for a more focused approach to education and meet the district’s projected student growth through 2021.

A sprawling lakeside and golf community, The Tribute will include more than 2,000 single-family homes at full buildout, along with townhomes, condominiums, and apartments. In addition to two 18-hole golf courses, it features canals, two amenity centers, and more than 200 acres of open space. A beach club and marina are planned.

Ted Wilson, principal of Residential Strategies Inc., said the new school will be a boost for the already-strong development.

“The creation of a K-8 academy will substantially increase The Tribute’s attractiveness to family buyers considering the West Frisco/FM 423 market area,” he said.