Vista Heritage Charter Middle School Receives $20,000 Grant to Implement Innovative Computer Science Curriculum by Project Lead The Way

Santa Ana, CA – Students at Vista Heritage Charter Middle School will soon have access to computer science courses that will give them an advantage in their education and future careers. The opportunity is made possible through a partnership between the Verizon Foundation and Project Lead The Way (PLTW), a nonprofit organization that provides transformative learning experiences for K-12 students and teachers through K-12 pathways in computer science, engineering, and biomedical science. Vista Heritage Charter Middle School joins more than 10,500 schools across the U.S. in offering PLTW programs to students.

Vista Heritage Charter Middle School is one of 72 schools across the country receiving part of a $3 million grant provided by the Verizon Foundation for implementation of PLTW computer science curriculum. This is an expansion of a partnership that began in 2014 between the two organizations to increase students’ access to computer science curriculum and help students develop the in-demand knowledge and skills they need to succeed in the rapidly advancing, technology-based economy.

“Receiving this grant means everything for our school. We are thrilled to be able to offer PLTW next year for our students. This innovative program will give our students a real-world hands-on learning experience as we work to transform the school experience for our students.”

– Dr. Collin Felch

PLTW Gateway’s computer science units – App Creators and – Computer Science for Innovators and Makers are part of PLTW’s K-12 Computer Science pathway and are built on PLTW’s hands-on, project-based instructional approach. The units provide an opportunity for students to experience computer science in a relevant and engaging way, empowering them to solve real-world problems using the powerful ideas behind computational thinking, learn digital citizenship, and strengthen their critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills. The program sets them up for further computer science learning via PLTW’s four-year Computer Science program in high school.

“Project Lead The Way is committed to preparing our nation’s next generation of problem–solvers and innovators,” said PLTW President and CEO Vince Bertram. “In partnership with Verizon, we are significantly increasing the number of students who have access to high-quality computer science education and will be prepared for these growing career opportunities.”

The grant funds will be disbursed over a two-year period to offset startup costs associated with implementing the units. They will also support professional development for teachers and provide schools with equipment including tablets and software.