Some Frequently Asked Questions About PLTW Model Schools

Why was the PLTW Model Schools program created?
The PLTW Model Schools program was created in 2007 to honor and celebrate outstanding examples of how middle and high schools can implement PLTW’s rigorous STEM education program to meet the unique needs of their own community. The winning schools also provide new PLTW schools and existing ones with examples of how they can more effectively launch, extend or enhance the PLTW program for their students.

What are the attributes of a PLTW Model School?
A PLTW Model School demonstrates multiple characteristics, which help contribute to a successful, outstanding and sustained PLTW implementation. While Model Schools vary in size, location and student population, they all share certain key attributes including a robust program implementation, excellent postsecondary relationships, outstanding communications and outreach, solid professional development and a strong level of student engagement.

Are PLTW Model Schools solely engineering high schools?
No, Gateway To Technology, Pathway To Engineering and Biomedical Sciences programs are represented in PLTW Model Schools. Indeed, all types of middle and high schools are considered for recognition as a PLTW Model School. After all, PLTW is an inclusive program that works with public, private and charter schools. Some of the schools even offer PLTW to students who are homeschooled in their area.

How and when are PLTW Model Schools nominated?
Every year around January, PLTW sends out a survey to the PLTW Network asking for nominees. The survey is followed by an application that requires details on multiple aspects of a school’s PLTW program. Anyone in the PLTW network can nominate a site for consideration.

How are PLTW Model Schools judged?
Model Schools are judged in a two-step process. During the first stage, schools nominated by individuals in the PLTW Network are awarded points for demonstrating key elements of the quality indicators outlined in PLTW’s critical performance criteria. All together, the initial scoring guide contains 37 performance indicators within five quality indicator categories: program implementation, postsecondary relationships, communications and outreach, professional development and student engagement. In the final phase of the selection process, a committee that consists of select PLTW State Leaders and Affiliate Directors reviews and evaluates schools’ original applications and follow-up questionnaires. The committee provides scores based on unique aspects of each category using a four-point rubric.

What are the key performance indicators?
Key performance indicators are quantifiable measurements, agreed to beforehand, that reflect the critical factors of successful PLTW implementation. A few of the indicators include: PLTW-trained teachers participate in the Virtual Academy lessons; a Partnership Team organizes and participates in activities to support the program; all teachers and students are participating in the national PLTW data collection process; and the school has postsecondary articulation agreements with colleges and universities.

Can I visit a PLTW Model School?
Yes, PLTW Model Schools welcome the opportunity to share their experiences and programs with visitors. You’ll find contact information for each Model School in this section of the website. For additional assistance, please contact PLTW's Director of Communications, Jennifer Cahill, at [email protected].