Jackson Elementary School announced today that it has been recognized as a Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished School for providing broad access to transformative learning opportunities for students through PLTW LaunchTM. It is one of just 214 elementary schools across the U.S. to receive this honor. PLTW is a nonprofit organization that serves millions of PreK-12 students and teachers in schools across the U.S.
“Jackson Elementary School is honored to receive recognition as a PLTW Distinguished School,” said Jackson principal, Dr. Linda Rugg. “Through real-world applications, students are engaged in hands-on science experiences that instill a love of science and math. They provide leadership opportunities for boys and girls of all abilities in all grades. All staff, students, and parents embraced the program and 100% of teachers were trained in the PLTW program and processes. I am proud to be a PLTW Distinguished School and attest to the positive impact this program has had on student attitudes and achievement. I am appreciative of the support that PLTW provides through their curriculum and programming as well.”
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, Jackson Elementary School had to offer at least two PLTW Launch modules at each grade level and have more than 75 percent of the student body participating during the 2017-18 school year.
Studies show that students decide as early as elementary school whether they like, and think they are good at, math and science. Whether designing a car safety belt or building digital animations based on their own short stories, PLTW Launch students engage in critical and creative thinking, build teamwork skills, and develop a passion for and confidence in STEM subjects.
“It is a great honor to recognize Jackson Elementary School for their commitment to students,” said Vince Bertram, President and CEO of PLTW. “They are a model for what school should look like, and they should be very proud of ensuring students have the knowledge and skills to be career ready and successful on any career path they choose.”
Jackson Elementary School is part of a community of PreK-12 schools, colleges and universities, and corporate and philanthropic partners across the country united around a passion for providing students with inspiring, engaging, and empowering learning opportunities. For more information about PLTW’s recognition program, visit pltw.org/our-programs/program-recognition.
For more information on Jackson Elementary School’s PLTW Launch program or to set up a school visit, contact Principal Dr. Linda Rugg at 219-983-3680.
Project Lead The Way (PLTW) is a nonprofit organization that provides a transformative learning experience for PreK-12 students and teachers across the U.S. PLTW empowers students to develop in-demand, transportable knowledge and skills through pathways in computer science, engineering, and biomedical science. PLTW’s teacher training and resources support teachers as they engage their students in real-world learning. Approximately 11,500 elementary, middle, and high schools in all 50 states and the District of Columbia offer PLTW programs. For more information on Project Lead The Way, visit pltw.org.