BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — St. Francis Parish School was recognized in April 2020 as a Distinguished School for participation in Project Lead The Way.

It is one of 404 elementary schools across the U.S. to receive this honor.

Project Lead The Way is a nonprofit organization that serves PreK-12 students and teachers in schools across the U.S.

St. Francis Parish School began implementing PLTW in 2014 to expand their STEM education.

The PLTW program offers standards aligned lesson plans for grades K-8. PLTW Gateway for grades 6-8 continues these science, computer programming and engineering concepts increasing opportunities for student-led learning and teamwork. PLTW Gateway is also aligned with high schools, like Garces, that implement the PLTW program. At the high school level colleges across the nation offer college-level credits for PLTW courses and may offer opportunities for scholarships as well.