The LLHS STEM education teaches a curriculum designed by Project Lead the Way (PLTW) that engages students in activities, projects, and problem-based learning to focus on college and career goals. STEM courses are for students who may be considering college or technical fields related to STEM. It is an Academy because STEM courses are taken concurrent with required math and science courses needed to graduate from Lakeside Lutheran, so an application process is required.

More than 4,700 schools and  3,000 teachers are trained to instruct this engaging, rigorous STEM education curriculum. PLTW emphasizes community and business partnerships, as well as introducing students to possible STEM career fields.

What is STEM?  

STEM was first coined by the National Science Foundation in the early 1990’s and is applied to any policy, event, curriculum, or education program dealing with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. STEM curriculums strive to prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century.

Why should I consider STEM for my teen? 

STEM classes are designed to challenge students who have an interest in STEM fields and are highly motivated to learn. Students will be challenged academically with the goal of giving them the greatest opportunity for success in postsecondary STEM programs and STEM careers. In addition, students in STEM classes will be encouraged to enroll in other rigorous course offerings, including Physics, Calculus, and AP courses.

What curriculum is used in 2025/26? 

Project Lead the Way (PLTW) has developed and used the curriculum worldwide over the last 2 decades. Schools using the PLTW curriculum must also partner with local industries and businesses. Part of the PLTW curriculum requires LLHS to partner with local industries and also work to find mentors to students in the program. When they have questions about future courses of study, college programs, internships, or challenges in the classroom, the people and businesses LLHS will partner with will be there with experience to guide the students.

How does STEM fit in the academic day? 

STEM is an elective. Students who take a STEM engineering class still have to take the math and science classes required to graduate.

What do I need to do to possibly earn college credit? 

Families of students enrolled in STEM can work with our Guidance office regarding course planning, college credit application, and postsecondary and career planning.

PLTW ENGINEERING 

See course descriptions under the "STEM" heading here

 

I don’t know if I want to be an engineer. Should I still take STEM?

Students benefit from STEM Academy courses even if they do not pursue engineering. The courses give a good exposure to different engineering fields, so they are useful in helping a student decide if that is the direction they want to go, but they also teach valuable skills such as problem solving, team-work, and professional skills.