Heart of Stark: Perry and Hoover High named 'Distinguished Schools'

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Perry High School and Hoover High School were recently recognized as 2023-24 Project Lead The Way Distinguished Schools for their transformative learning experiences offered to students through engineering programming.

Project Lead the Way is a national nonprofit organization that serves millions of prekindergarten-12th grade students and teachers in over 12,200 schools across the U.S., aiming to bring practical STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) opportunities to all students. Two hundred high schools across the country, including 12 in Ohio, received the honor for providing broad access to learning experiences for students.

The high school programs are designed to prepare students for future careers by incorporating STEM into their learning and building collaboration, teamwork and communication skills. Project Lead the Way engineering empowers high school students to step into the role of an engineer and adopt a problem-solving mindset as they engage in real-life activities like working with a client to design a home, programming electronic devices or robotic arms, and exploring algae as a biofuel source.

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"We are incredibly honored to be recognized as a 2023-24 Project Lead The Way Distinguished School," said Bill Hildebrand, Perry High School principal. "This distinction underscores our commitment to providing our students with transformative learning experiences in STEM through PLTW Engineering. PLTW has not only enriched our curriculum but has also empowered our students to become innovative thinkers and problem solvers, preparing them for success in the ever-evolving landscape of the 21st century."

The Project Lead The Way Distinguished School recognition honors schools committed to increasing student access, engagement and achievement in their programs. The designation is determined by the availability of Project Lead The Way courses for students, percentage of the student body enrolled in the courses, percentage of students taking more than one course and efforts to ensure equitable access to all courses.

"We are honored to recognize the commitment to providing students with exceptional educational experiences while ensuring equitable access to PLTW programs," said Dr. David Dimmett, Project Lead The Way president and CEO. “We congratulate them on this achievement and celebrate their dedication to empowering students with the knowledge and skills to succeed, not only in STEM subjects but also in preparing them for future careers and life outside of the classroom."

Learn more about Project Lead The Way Engineering and the Distinguished Schools recognition at www.pltw.org.

The Stark Community Foundation helps individuals, families, businesses and nonprofits achieve their philanthropic goals through a variety of charitable funds and strategic initiatives. Ranked in the top 10% of community foundations in the country, the foundation and its family of donors have granted more than $250 million to nonprofits since 1963. Learn more at www.starkcf.org.