Stafford Middle and High Schools’ Spartan Engineering Academy Lab recently received the highest level of national certification for its Project Lead the Way program. SEAL, which began in 2007, gives students in grades 8-12 the opportunity to engage in engineering coursework that prepares them for college-level engineering programs.
National certification by PLTW means that Stafford Middle and High Schools have successfully met PLTW’s quality standards in professional development of teachers and counselors; the implementation of curriculum using required equipment and software; and the formation of a Partnership Team with a local college or university. SEAL students benefit from national certification through its hands-on curriculum and the opportunity to earn college credit for some of the engineering courses.
Since implementation of the SEAL program, Stafford High School math and science assessment scores have significantly increased. In place of traditional instruction, 144 students learn engineering applications by applying math and science to design and develop projects. SEAL students recently demonstrated Robotic and Lego projects to kindergarten and first grade students at Stafford Primary School.
“I am just really pleased with the overall PLTW environment and support,” said PLTW Certification Team leader Julie Moore.
The Partnership Team includes teachers, parents, administrators, and business and community representatives from Fluor Daniel, Texas Instruments, and City of Stafford. SEAL instructors are Nathanial Joseph, Frank Hoang, and John Williams at the high school and Jerry Stevens and Byron Thompson at the middle school. Stafford High School counselor Jilla Peasley serves as the liaison between SEAL and Houston Community College.
For additional information on the program, contact Jon Gray at 281-261-9232.
