Sussex Academy recognized for STEM and career learning programs
Sussex Academy has been recognized as a Project Lead The Way Distinguished School for providing broad access to transformative learning opportunities for students through PLTW Engineering.
It is one of 64 high schools across the country to receive this honor. PLTW is a nonprofit organization that serves millions of teachers and students in preschool through high school all over the United States.
“This recognition showcases our students and their desire to do their best and rise to the challenging coursework. Through this program, students are developing skill sets that are aligned with the desired skills for high-pay and high-demand careers, as well as preparing them up for success in college,” said Tim Elmer, high school STEM teacher.
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, Sussex Academy had to meet the following criteria during the 2017-18 school year: Offer at least three PLTW courses; have 25 percent of students or more participate in PLTW courses, or of those who participated in PLTW, at least 33 percent took two or more PLTW courses during their high school tenure; have 70 percent of students or more earn a rating of proficient or higher on PLTW end-of-course assessments, or 10 percent of students earn the AP + PLTW student achievement.
Through PLTW programs, students develop STEM knowledge as well as in-demand, transportable skills that they will use both in school and for the rest of their lives, on any career path they take. PLTW Engineering empowers high school students to step into the role of engineers and adopt problem-solving mindsets. Students engage in collaborative, real-life activities like working with a client to design a home, programming electronic devices or robotic arms, and exploring algae as a biofuel source.
“It is a great honor to recognize Sussex Academy 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.”
Sussex Academy is part of a community of preschools, elementary and secondary 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, go to www.pltw.org and www.sussexacademy.org.
