BROOKFIELD, WI, March 14, 2010
/24-7PressRelease/ -- Minnesota students' participation in Project Lead the Way (PTLW) - an innovative series of middle and high school classes that blend science, technology, engineering and math - grew by 44 percent in 2009. More than 33,500 students from 161 schools took part in the program. The numbers are indicative of the program's continued growth within the state, which featured 17,000 students two years ago. Nationally, PLTW courses are offered in 3,500 schools.
"Experience in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) is vital to students as they prepare for college and the workforce," said Paul Strykowski, PLTW Minnesota affiliate director. "With more than half of the engineers and scientists in the United States nearing retirement, technical industries are in desperate need of workers who will be responsible for innovation and economic growth. The commitment and dedication of Minnesota school students, teachers and administrators are to be applauded."
According to U.S. government data, job openings requiring expertise in STEM will increase by 18.3 percent through 2014.
Business and state education leaders plan to continue PTLW expansion during 2010. Enrollment since the program's start in 1999 has steadily increased due to the collaborative efforts of schools, public and private organizations and the business community.
Many partnerships encourage PLTW program implementation and sustainability. Minnesota's Department of Employment and Economic Development has fueled program growth by endorsing Workforce Innovation in Regional Economic Development grant funding in support of PLTW school initiatives. The Minnesota Department of Education also provided competitive STEM grants, which funded PLTW in several high schools. Through partnerships formed with PLTW schools, private foundations, businesses and industries across the state have supported Minnesota schools to ensure the curriculum reaches more students each year.
Other vital partners include: the University of Minnesota, which provides professional development training to teachers, and offers college credit for high-achieving PLTW students; St. Cloud State University provides PLTW training in its undergraduate teacher certification program; Centers of Excellence located at Minnesota State University (Mankato) and Bemidji State University provide regional leadership for PLTW schools, teachers and students by connecting them with local workforce development and business initiatives; and many two- and four-year campuses within the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System are creating opportunities for high school students to earn college credit through PLTW courses.
About Project Lead The Way
Created in response to the expected 15 million engineer and technical worker shortage (according to U.S. Government estimates) in the U.S. by the year 2015, PLTW helps students apply academic engineering and technology concepts in compelling, real-world ways. The program has established partnerships with schools in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
General information about PLTW can be found at http://www.pltw.org, while state-specific information is located at http://www.MNPLTW.org. At these websites, school leaders interested in initiating PLTW at their schools may learn more about the program. Additional information may be obtained by contacting Paul Strykowski at pstry@umn.edu or at 612-626-2008.
Editors Note: To arrange an interview with national, state, or local PLTW leaders, or receive photos of students participating in PLTW activities, contact Chad Ritterbusch or Marc Whitney at 262-786-5970.
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