Burmaster announces 'Project Lead the Way' state appropriation money

State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster announced $500,000 in state appropriations targeted for Project Lead the Way (PLTW) high school programs in Wisconsin.

"Many of Wisconsin's fastest-growing industries and highest-demand jobs are in fields that require a background in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics," said Burmaster. "This money will help support Project Lead the Way programs in Wisconsin as they prepare students for success in the engineering and technology fields."

The funding is part of Gov. Jim Doyle's 2007-09 state biennial budget, with $250,000 available for the 2007-08 school year and an additional $250,000 for the 2008-09 school year. Participating high school programs may use the money for professional development for teachers or to make the required annual PLTW software purchase.

"Project Lead the Way provides our students with a rigorous pre-engineering program that uses the latest in high-tech computer software," said Burmaster. "The program allows students to explore a major career path and prepares them for continued success if they choose to pursue a two- or four-year degree in engineering or engineering technology after they graduate."

PLTW is dedicated to preparing middle and high school students for careers in the technical, high-wage sector of engineering and engineering technology. With Department of Public Instruction and the Kern Family Foundation support, there were 119 PLTW Wisconsin schools in 2007-08. Of those schools, 79 applied for and received funding through this appropriation, which is limited to $3,000 total per participating high school. More than 140 schools are expected to participate in PLTW during the 2008-09 school year.

A list of schools receiving Project Lead the Way funding for the 2007-08 school year is available in the complete news release. More information about Project Lead the Way in Wisconsin can be found at http://www.pltw-wi.org/index.html.

Last updated on 7/18/2008 9:13:29 AM