Washington High School Recognized as
a PLTW Distinguished School
The Project Lead The Way Distinguished Program Recognition celebrates districts and schools committed to helping students own their education by increasing student access, engagement, and achievement in their PLTW programs.
These districts and schools empower their students to unlock their potential by developing the in-demand, real-world knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in life beyond the classroom.
Washington HS was one of 22 schools in Indiana and one of 202 schools in the nation to be recognized. Offering 9 PLTW courses, within the Engineering, Biomedical, and Computer Science realms, Washington High School is one of the smallest school in Indiana and the nation to offer multiple years of all three disciplines of PLTW.
Impact Profile
Washington High School is proud to offer 10 PLTW Courses.
PLTW Computer Science
Computer Science Essentials
Students will experience the major topics, big ideas, and computational thinking practices used by computing professionals to solve problems and create value for others. This course will empower students to develop computational thinking skills while building confidence that prepares them to advance to Computer Science Principles and Computer Science A.
Computer Science Principles
Using Python® as a primary tool, students explore and become inspired by career paths that utilize computing, discover tools that foster creativity and collaboration, and use what they’ve learned to tackle challenges like app development and simulation. This course is endorsed by the College Board, giving students the opportunity to take the AP Computer Science Principles exam for college credit.
Computer Science A
Students cultivate their understanding of coding through analyzing, writing, and testing code as they explore concepts like modularity, variables, and control structures. Fundamental topics in this course include the design of solutions to problems, the use of data structures to organize large sets of data, the development and implementation of algorithms to process data and discover new information, the analysis of potential solutions, and the ethical and social implications of computing systems. The course emphasizes object-oriented programming and design using the Java programming language. PLTW is recognized by the College Board as an endorsed provider of curriculum and professional development for AP® Computer Science A (AP CSa). This endorsement affirms that all components of PLTW CSa’s offerings are aligned to the AP Curriculum Framework standards and the AP CSA assessment.
Cybersecurity
Whether seeking a career in the growing field of cybersecurity or learning to defend their own personal data or a company’s data, students in Cybersecurity establish an ethical code of conduct while learning to defend data in today’s complex cyberworld.
PLTW Engineering
Introduction to Engineering Design
Students dig deep into the engineering design process, applying math, science, and engineering standards to hands-on projects like designing a new toy or improving an existing product.
Principles of Engineering
Students explore a broad range of engineering topics including mechanisms, strength of structure and materials, and automation, and then they apply what they know to take on challenges like designing a self-powered car.
Civil Engineering & Architecture
Students learn important aspects of building and site design and development, and then they apply what they know to design a commercial building.
Computer Integrated Manufacturing
Students discover and explore manufacturing processes, product design, robotics, and automation, and then they apply what they have learned to design solutions for real-world manufacturing problems.
PLTW Biomedical Science
Principles of Biomedical Science
From design and data analysis to outbreaks, clinical empathy, health promotion, and more, students explore the vast range of careers in biomedical sciences. They develop not just technical skills, but also in-demand, transportable skills that they need to thrive in life and career.
Human Body Systems
Through projects such as determining the identity of a skeleton using both forensic anthropology and DNA analysis, students examine the interactions of human body systems and apply what they know to solve real-world medical cases.