The Gifted Academy at Thurgood Marshall School has been recognized as a 2023-2024 Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished School. This honor is given to a select number of middle schools across the country for providing broad access to transformative learning experiences for students through PLTW Gateway, a grade 6-8 STEM curriculum.
"We are really proud of the way we have been able to increase the courses offered to our students that emphasize discovery, science, and engineering!", said Principal Jessica Powell. "Project Lead the Way has given our students firsthand understanding of some of the skills and demands of various careers while encouraging creativity and fostering collaboration."
"Our PLTW teacher, Mrs. Stacy Wallace, has embraced every aspect of this curriculum and the courses we offer. She is invested in our students and her classroom is a space students can’t wait to get to during the school day!"
The PLTW Distinguished School recognition honors schools committed to increasing student access, engagement, and achievement in their PLTW programs. To be eligible for the designation, Marshall had to meet a variety of criteria such as the percentage of students participating in PLTW, the percentage of students who participate in more than one PLTW unit, the number of PLTW units offered, and efforts to ensure equitable access to PLTW courses.
Research shows that the middle grades play a pivotal role in influencing high school, college, and career success. During this transitional time, it’s crucial to provide students with access to relevant, engaging, and real-world learning experiences that expose the range of career paths and possibilities available to them. Whether designing an automated robotics system or exploring aerospace by creating designs and prototypes, PLTW Gateway students engage in critical and creative thinking, build teamwork skills, and develop confidence in STEM subjects.
“We are honored to recognize the Gifted Academy at Thurgood Marshall School for their commitment to providing students with exceptional educational experiences while ensuring equitable access to PLTW programs,” said Dr. David Dimmett, PLTW President and CEO. "We congratulate them on this achievement and celebrate their dedication to empowering students with the knowledge and skills to succeed, not only in STEM subjects, but preparing them for future careers and life beyond the classroom."