Named a distinguished school for STEM curriculum and career readiness
On Thursday, May 2, Fort Walton Beach High School was recognized as a 2023-24 Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Distinguished School. This honor reflects the dedication to providing students with broad access to transformative learning experiences through PLTW Biomedical Science and Engineering. “Being named a PLTW Distinguished High School is a true honor. We pride ourselves on preparing students for a future in STEM fields related to biomedical sciences and engineering. We strive to foster a passion for learning among all students who have an interest in the biomedical and engineering fields,” said Megan Mueller, a biomedical science teacher at Fort Walton Beach High School.
The PLTW Distinguished School recognition is bestowed upon schools that are dedicated to enhancing student access, engagement, and success in their PLTW programs. Fort Walton Beach High School met multiple criteria in the 2022-23 school year to be eligible for this designation, including the number of PLTW courses offered to students, the percentage of students enrolled in PLTW courses, the percentage of students taking multiple PLTW courses, and efforts to ensure that all students have equal access to PLTW courses. Superintendent Marcus Chambers stated, “I am thrilled to offer my heartfelt congratulations to Fort Walton Beach High School for their exceptional accomplishment in preparing students to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in STEM subjects. Their unwavering commitment to preparing students for their future careers and lives beyond the classroom is commendable and deserves recognition.”
“We are honored to recognize Fort Walton Beach 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. 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. For more information about PLTW’s Distinguished Program Recognition, visit pltw.org/our-programs/program-recognition.