RADFORD – Belle Heth and McHarg elementary schools have been recognized as 2023-24 Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished Schools.
The honor is given to a select number of elementary schools across the U.S. for providing broad access to transformative learning experiences for students through PLTW Launch, an elementary STEM curriculum. PLTW is a national nonprofit organization that serves millions of Pre-K- 12 students and teachers in schools across the U.S., aiming to make every child in every grade STEM successful. Belle Heth and McHarg are two of only five Virginia elementary schools to receive this honor.
Assistant Superintendent for Radford City Schools Ellen Denny said the designation shows the dedication of the staff and RCPS’s focus on innovation.
“Our recognition as a distinguished PLTW school highlights Radford City Schools commitment to providing students with innovative and hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education that prepares them for future careers,” said Denny. “This award is a testament to the hard work of our dedicated teachers, students, and community partners who have embraced the PLTW program and its impact on our academic excellence. We are very proud to receive this recognition!”
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, Belle Heth Elementary and McHarg Primary schools had to have more than 75 percent of the student body participating in the program and had to offer at least one PLTW Launch module at each grade level during the 2022-23 school year.
Staff report
