The Episcopal School of Dallas Launches Project Lead The Way to Expand STEM Opportunities for Students

October 29, 2024

In an exciting step towards preparing students for a STEM-driven future, The Episcopal School of Dallas announced a new partnership with Project Lead The Way (PLTW) in April 2024, aimed at expanding Engineering programs in the upper school. Through this partnership, made possible by a grant from PLTW, ESD will introduce the nationally recognized PLTW curriculum for the 2024-2025 school year. PLTW is a nonprofit organization dedicated to equipping PreK-12 students with hands-on learning opportunities and empowering teachers to create impactful STEM learning experiences. ESD’s new curriculum will focus on real-world applications, including gateway and engineering networks designed to span from middle school through senior year, ensuring comprehensive and engaging STEM education for students at every stage.

As part of this launch, PLTW’s curriculum will be implemented in upper school and middle school, offering engineering. This program is designed to develop critical skills in students, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork—skills that are essential across all future career paths. Through hands-on projects and exposure to industry professionals' career practices, ESD students will gain invaluable experience and insights to help them thrive in their education and beyond.

“PLTW is proud to partner with ESD to bring relevant, real-world learning experiences that connect knowledge and skills to meaningful careers for students,” said Dr. David Dimmett, President and CEO of PLTW. “We believe teachers and administrators play an integral role in inspiring and showing students what’s possible. Together, we can empower students to thrive in the workforce of the future across any career path they choose.”

Our fifth-grade students have already experienced the PLTW program in action through an innovative outdoor education project within the Design and Modeling course. With guidance from middle school Design Lab Engineering Teacher Mrs. Tanya Snook, who has been teaching Project Lead the Way engineering at the middle school and high school level for nine years, students worked collaboratively to construct and test cardboard canoes. Through this engaging project, students experienced the engineering process firsthand, from planning and design to practical application and reflection. They had the opportunity to put their designs into action, debrief on what went well, and discuss how they could improve in future attempts—a key part of STEM learning.

For over 25 years, Project Lead The Way has brought relevant, hands-on learning to classrooms nationwide, reaching 2.5 million students in all 50 states. Focusing on empowering teachers and providing comprehensive professional development, PLTW ensures educators have the tools they need to make every student successful in STEM. ESD remains committed to STEM programming and equipping students with in-demand skills that will serve them in college, career, and life.

With these newly introduced PLTW programs, The Episcopal School of Dallas is excited to provide students with transformative learning experiences that will support their educational journey and open doors to limitless possibilities in STEM.