The purpose of this grant is to provide funding to Anson County Schools to fuel an expansion its STEM program offerings to include introductory courses at the middle grades, through Project Lead the Way’s Gateway to Technology courses (PLTW), that are intended to prepare students for more advanced PLTW courses in high school. PLTW is a nationally validated, STEM-based curriculum that promotes career exploration, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary connections. Identified outcomes for the three-year project include improved student proficiency on EOG/EOC exams, increased Math I completion, improved on-time graduation rate, and increased numbers of students earning college credit in technical programs at the local community college. Golden LEAF funds will be used for salaries and benefits for two instructional coaches, PLTW training and certification, enrichment and leadership activities, supplies, and materials.
