In 2014, we re-designed our building to now include a STEM lab. The lab contains 25 i7 processor-based laptops along with a robust duty cycle HP printer able to print 11X17 stock. The lab also is Wi-Fi enabled and has a smartboard. After visiting several schools, we selected the program from Project Lead the Way. All 6th-8th grade students will be part of this program.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) is the nation's leading provider of STEM programs. Our world-class curriculum and high-quality teacher professional development model, combined with an engaged network of educators and corporate and community partners, help students develop the skills necessary to succeed in our global economy.

PLTW's success in preparing students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed has been recognized by colleges and universities, Fortune 500 businesses, and numerous national organizations including Change the Equation, the Social Impact Exchange, and more.

PLTW courses are aligned with Common Core State Standards in math and English Language Arts, Next Generation Science Standards, and other national and state standards. Yet, our programs are flexible and customizable so that schools can meet their local curricular and community needs. Courses are designed to complement math and science courses offered by a school and in some instances are used as the core curriculum.

Rhodes School currently offers four PLTW Gateway series courses:

Design & Modeling - 6th Grade for a duration of 1 quarter

Students discover the design process and develop an understanding of the influence of creativity and innovation in their lives. They are then challenged and empowered to use and apply what they've learned throughout the unit to develop their 3D modeling skills.

Electronics - 7th Grade for a duration of 1 quarter

Through hands-on projects, students explore electricity, the behavior and parts of atoms, and sensing devices. They learn knowledge and skills in basic circuitry design, and examine the impact of electricity on the world around them.

Automation & Robotics - 8th Grade for a duration of 2 quarters

Students trace the history, development, and influence of automation and robotics as they learn about mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Students use the VEX Robotics platform to design, build, and program real-world objects such as traffic lights, toll booths, and robotic arms.

Computer Science - 8th Grade for a duration of 2 quarters

This unit will allow students to discover computer science concepts and skills by creating personally relevant, tangible, and usable app projects. Throughout the unit, students will learn about programming for the physical world by blending app design and software development. They will design and develop apps for Android devices that are geared toward solving real-world problems.

Teachers can be contacted via DOJO and email. Please visit our Staff Connection to contact your child's teacher.

STEM Curriculum Maps