Lincoln Middle School receives national recognition from Project Lead The Way for Commitment to empowering students

Named a distinguished school for STEM curriculum and career readiness

Lincoln Middle School has been recognized as a 2023-24 Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished School for the sixth year in a row. This honor is given to a select number of middle schools across the U.S. for providing broad access to transformative learning experiences for students through PLTW Gateway, a grade six-eight STEM curriculum. PLTW is a national nonprofit organization that serves millions of PreK-12 students and teachers in schools across the U.S.

“I am incredibly proud that our school has received this award,” said Eric Larson, principal of Lincoln Middle School. “This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to providing unique learning experiences for our students. Together, we will continue to inspire and empower our students to excel in the dynamic fields of science and technology.”

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, Lincoln Middle School had to meet a variety of criteria such as the percentage of students participating in PLTW, the percentage of students who participate in more than one PLTW unit, the number of PLTW units offered, and efforts to ensure equitable access to PLTW courses.

“It's a source of pride to instruct this program within a school and district that prioritizes both fine arts and STEAM curricula,” said Elizabeth Straczek, the Broad Experience teacher at Lincoln Middle School spearheading the program. “Receiving this award for the sixth consecutive year underscores our dedication to offering equitable educational opportunities to our middle school students.”

Research shows that the middle grades play a pivotal role in influencing high school, college, and career success. During this transitional time, it’s crucial to provide students with access to relevant, engaging and real-world learning experiences that expose the range of career paths and possibilities available to them. Whether designing an automated robotics system or exploring aerospace by creating designs and prototypes, PLTW Gateway students engage in critical and creative thinking, build teamwork skills and develop confidence in STEM subjects.

“We are honored to recognize Lincoln Middle 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 preparing them for future careers and life beyond the classroom.”

Lincoln Middle School is part of a community comprised of PreK-12 schools, colleges and universities, and corporate and philanthropic partners across the country united around a commitment to providing students with inspiring, engaging, and empowering learning opportunities.

For information about PLTW’s Distinguished Program Recognition, visit pltw.org/our-programs/program-recognition.