ROBIDOUX, BODE RECEIVE NATIONAL RECOGNITION
Robidoux and Bode Middle Schools have received national recognition for their “Project Lead The Way” programs.
“Project Lead The Way” is the nation’s leading provider of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education.
“PLTW provides a rigorous curriculum that allows students to apply what they are learning in math and science to real-life engineering and technology projects,” said Dr. Jaime Dial, Director of Secondary Education for the St. Joseph School District. “This recognition is quite an honor for Robidoux and Bode, as well as the teachers who make the program so successful.”
The two SJSD schools are in elite company, joining just seven other nationally certified middle schools in the state.
The award recognizes schools that have successfully demonstrated a commitment to the quality national standards of the Gateway to Technology program.
There are 110 students enrolled in the program at Robidoux, and 91 at Bode.
“Teachers are a critical component to the success of the program,” said Dr. Dial. “All teachers are required to complete intensive two-week professional development courses in the summer before they can participate.”
This is the first year for implementation of the Gateway to Technology program at Bode and Robidoux. It is an introduction to PLTW Pathway to Engineering courses for grades 9-12, which are offered at all three SJSD high schools. Spring Garden and Truman Middle Schools will begin their classes next year.
Dan McCamy is the instructor at Bode, and Todd Brockett is the Robidoux teacher. Mr. Brockett also recently received recognition as the Northwest District “Teacher of the Year” for the Technology Educator Association of Missouri. His program was named Northwest District “Program of the Year,” and he qualified five students for state competition.
