Purdue University is expanding its collaboration with the Project Lead The Way (PLTW) STEM education program for K-12 students.
For 14 years, the Purdue Polytechnic Institute (formerly the College of Technology) has led Purdue University’s affiliate partnership with the national organization from its Kokomo location. To help increase PLTW teachers’ exposure to the college’s programs and facilities, the college liaison to PLTW will soon be headquartered on the West Lafayette campus.
“This opportunity aligns with the college’s ongoing transformation, especially as it relates to preparing students for STEM majors and careers,” said Gary Bertoline, dean of the Purdue Polytechnic Institute.
Daphene Koch, associate professor of construction management technology, will become the affiliate director to continue the partnerships between PLTW, PLTW teachers and the college and create new opportunities for professional development on campus.
PLTW teachers will continue to have direct access to Purdue faculty, and the college will assist the organization with curriculum enhancements when they are needed as well.
An annual PLTW teacher training will move from the college’s Kokomo location to the West Lafayette campus starting in summer 2016.
The Purdue Polytechnic offers the university’s engineering/technology teacher education program, which certifies its graduates as PLTW teachers.