Each year, PLTW proudly celebrates students who go beyond the classroom to make a meaningful difference in their communities. The PLTW Community Impact Awards honor student teams who apply their knowledge, creativity, and compassion to solve real-world challenges.
Now in its second year, the 2024-25 Community Impact Awards continue to spotlight the power of project-based learning and the incredible potential of tomorrow’s leaders.
This year’s winning teams exemplify the spirit of innovation and service that defines PLTW. From inclusive design to healthcare innovation, their projects demonstrate how classroom learning can drive real change. Let’s take a closer look at their inspiring work—and the lasting impact they’ve made.
Middle School Winning Project: Picnic with a Purpose
Elkhorn Area Middle School
Elkhorn, Wisconsin
PLTW Teachers: Eryca Card and Steve Fisher
Students: Julia Kenth, Brady Kienbaum, Brooklyn Longenecker, Ryan McGinnis, Camryn Sieberer, and other 6th grade students
With their project, “Picnic with a Purpose,” sixth-grade students from Elkhorn Area Middle School identified a critical need in their community and took action. Veteran’s Park in downtown Elkhorn lacked accessible seating, especially for wheelchair users. Guided by PLTW teachers Eryca Card and Steve Fisher, the students designed and built durable, ADA-approved picnic tables to ensure inclusive access for all park visitors.
But their impact didn’t stop there. The team partnered with Matthias Academy in Bristol, Wisconsin, to provide hands-on woodworking experiences for adults with disabilities—extending the reach of their project and empowering others through skill-building and collaboration.
“This project exemplifies community impact, applying PLTW skills to address real needs. By improving ADA compliance, students showcased leadership and made a tangible difference.”
— PLTW selection committee member
The Elkhorn community is beaming with pride, and PLTW is honored to recognize this exceptional team. Your work is a shining example of what’s possible when students lead with empathy, innovation, and purpose.
High School Winning Project: PinchPals
Academy of Information Technology and Engineering
Stamford, Connecticut
PLTW Teachers: Paige Ridley and Danielle Weber
Students: Darlin Oliva Catalan, Camila Dos Santos Cunha, Sophia Moreno, Penelope Shannon
Meet PinchPals—a team of four high school students who combined their PLTW Biomedical Science and Engineering experience to tackle a challenge faced by millions: the fear and discomfort of frequent injections. Their solution? A customizable, child-friendly device that reduces pain and anxiety for young patients with Type 1 Diabetes.
Through extensive research, prototyping, and user feedback, the team developed a product that’s not only functional but emotionally supportive. Using the SCAMPER model, they explored needle technologies, numbing techniques, and accessible materials to refine their design—demonstrating a deep commitment to both innovation and empathy.
“An impressive project demonstrating strong alignment with PLTW courses. The team’s thorough research, use of surveys, and insights from healthcare professionals were commendable. Their solution addresses a real-world problem and is adaptable across multiple treatments—enhancing sustainability. A remarkable achievement.”
— PLTW selection committee member
PLTW is proud to celebrate the PinchPals team for their ingenuity and heart. Your work is already making a difference—and your future is bright.
These student teams exemplify what it means to be problem solvers, changemakers, and leaders. Congratulations to all the 2024-25 PLTW Community Impact Award winners!
Want to see how last year’s students made a difference?
Explore the 2023-24 PLTW Community Impact Awards winning projects.
