Learning is all around us! Benjamin Franklin once said, “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.”
Introducing: Project Lead the Way. This program is the nation’s leading provider of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs. Students are highly involved in all areas of learning. In 2004, the current CTE Director, Reid Newey, saw the growing need for a Technical STEM program in the Weber School district. This program was designed to help students get excited and prepared for careers like biomedical, robotics, engineering and other technical fields.
John Donley, who is the CTE Coordinator over Project Lead the Way in the Weber District tells us, “First and foremost, our program gives students the skills needed to be successful. When they go onto college they have a base knowledge that allows them to be at the top of their classes.”
Project Lead the Way offers 46 college credits at Weber State University which are also articulated with the local Applied Technology Colleges. Students can start taking Gateway classes in 8th grade. Then, in 9th grade, they can begin taking PLTW classes along with Physics with Technology over at the Weber Innovation Center. Busing is provided for all classes. In High School, students can select from a wide variety of classes offered and busing is again provided. The courses are offered at the Weber Innovation Center located at 1007 West 12th Street, Ogden Utah 84404.
Classes such as: Digital Electronics, Aerospace Engineering, Principles of Engineering and many others are offered through Project Lead the Way. A variety of skills is also taught which includes: 3D modeling/printing, electronics, architecture, and many more.
When asked about some of the highlights over the years, Donley is proud to say, “The differences we are making in the lives of our students. It is always exciting to see a student come back a few years after graduation and thank us for the education they received. They always tell us how much easier college was because of our program.”
Project Lead the Way is a successful program due in part to how dedicated the teachers are in doing what is best for the students. All classes are project based which allows students to become immersed in the class content.
“I would encourage all students to take a few of our Project Lead the Way classes because the things you learn here will help you throughout your life, “notes Donley.
Salome Furgeson, an 11th grader, tells us why she enjoys Project Lead the Way, “I really like how you learn at your own pace and how much technology you use in class such as the computer programs (3D printing software). Also, you can work faster so you won’t be sitting around bored like you are in public school. Project Lead the Way also gives you a chance to branch out and meet people from other schools in your district which is kind of fun!”
As a senior in High School, Colby Hepler says, “I’ve enjoyed learning about the different aspects of engineering and getting some experience with those engineering principles. I’ve also enjoyed getting to know people from all the different schools that come to the Weber Innovation Center!”
If you are a parent or a student interested in learning more about Project Lead the Way in the Weber School District or if you’d like to visit their location for a tour, please contact: John Donley @ 801-476-6524 or jfdonley@wsd.net.
