Lauren Estes-Velez

Hartselle Enquirer

Barkley Bridge has committed to being involved in Launch, a Project Lead the Way program for elementary schools.

PLTW is a nationally-recognized program for STEM schooling. PLTW asserts students already have the qualities of great designers and innovators, and their programs tap into students’ exploratory natures to engage them in learning that empowers them to adopt design-thinking mindsets.

Through compelling activities, projects and problems that build upon each other and relate to the world around them, students engage in hands-on activities in science, technology, engineering and math. They become creative, collaborative problem-solvers ready to take on any challenge.

Barkley Bridge Elementary School is committed to providing all students in kindergarten through fourth grade with a solid STEM education, and Project Lead the Way programs are part of the way to accomplish this commitment.

Three years ago, Barkley Bridge Elementary School began a more concerted effort to offer all students a strong foundation in STEM education. In 2016-2017, Barkley Bridge teacher Angie Harris was named Alabama Launch Teacher of the Year, and then-principal Susan Hayes was named Alabama Project Lead the Way Advocate of the Year.

Teacher Kim Jared is now being recognized by the organization for her contributions to student success in her Barkley Bridge classroom.