Kirkwood High School (KHS) has been recognized as a 2023-24 Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished School. It is one of just a few hundred high schools across the U.S. to receive this honor for providing broad access to transformative learning experiences for students through PLTW. KHS offers several PLTW courses including: Introduction to Engineering Design, Principles of Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering and Architecture, AP Computer Science Principles, Digital Electronics, Environmental Sustainability and Engineering Design and Development.

“We are beyond thrilled to learn this news,” said KHS principal, Dr. Seth Harrell. “It’s a competitive award to earn and I credit the hard work and dedication of our teachers for supporting these classes. Project Lead The Way courses are important fields for our students to explore as we prepare them for college and career readiness.”

PLTW is a national nonprofit organization that serves millions of PreK-12 students and teachers in over 12,200 schools across the U.S, aiming to make every student in every grade STEM successful.

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, KHS had to meet multiple criteria in the 2022-23 school year such as the number of PLTW courses available to students, percent of students enrolled in PLTW, percentage of students taking more than one PLTW course, and efforts to ensure equitable access to PLTW courses.

“We are honored to recognize Kirkwood High 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 also preparing them for future careers and life outside of the classroom."

PLTW high school programs prepare today’s students for the careers of tomorrow, by not only incorporating STEM skills into their learning but building students’ collaboration, teamwork and communication skills so they can be ready for whatever path they take.