Blackmore, Grandview, and Skelly elementary schools have been recognized as a 2024-25 Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished Schools. This honor is given to a select number of elementary schools across the U.S. for providing broad access to transformative learning experiences for students through PLTW Launch, an elementary STEM curriculum. PLTW is a national nonprofit organization that creates transformative learning experiences and empowers students to develop in-demand knowledge and skills for future careers.
"Each year, USD 490 provides all elementary students access to STEM classes at least once per week as part of a "specials" rotation schedule,” USD 490 Superintendent Jenifer Davis said. “Our elementary students and staff have earned this Distinguished School honor because of their commitment to developing early Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math skills at all grade levels. This national recognition is certainly well deserved by our elementary students, staff, and families."
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, our schools had to have more than 75 percent of the student body participating in the program and had to offer at least one PLTW Launch module at each grade level during the 2023-24 school year.
Research indicates that students form opinions and develop interest in math and science as early as elementary school. Through activities like designing a car safety belt or creating digital animations inspired by their own short stories, PLTW Launch students engage in critical and creative thinking, enhance teamwork abilities, and develop a passion for and confidence in STEM subjects.
“We are proud to honor Blackmore, Grandview, and Skelly elementary schools for their commitment to providing students with exceptional educational experiences through PLTW programs,” said Dr. David Dimmett, PLTW President and CEO. "This achievement celebrates their dedication to student achievement and their focus on empowering students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in school and a wide range of post-secondary opportunities.”
USD 490 is part of a community comprised of PreK-12 schools, colleges and universities, and corporate and philanthropic partners across the country united around a commitment to providing students with inspiring, engaging, and empowering learning opportunities. For more information about PLTW’s Distinguished Program Recognition, visit https://www.pltw.org/pltw-program-recognition.
For more information on USD 490's PLTW Launch program, contact Rachael Shipley at 316-322-4800.