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Dakota Ridge High School

Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Engineering Program

Dakota Ridge High School is only one of two high schools in Jeffco School District to offer the PLTW Engineering Program.  PLTW is a nation wide non-profit organization that worked with engineering colleges to develop top quality programs to prepare students for success in their future careers.  Created in the 1990's, PLTW is recognized as the gold standard for high school engineering programs.  They have since expanded to provide elementary and middle school programs as well as high school Computer Science, and Biomedical Science programs.  DRHS is one of about 50 high schools in the state of Colorado running the PLTW Engineering Program and only one two offering it in Jeffco School District.   

Each PLTW Engineering course engages students in interdisciplinary activities like working with a client to design a home, programming electronic devices or robotic arms. These activities not only build knowledge and skills in engineering, but also empower students to develop essential skills such as problem solving, critical and creative thinking, communication, collaboration, and perseverance. 

Introduction to Engineering Design (9th grade)

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 (10th, 11th or 12th grade)

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.

Aerospace Engineering (10th, 11th or 12th grade)

Students explore and experience the wonders of flight, aerodynamics, and space exploration.  Student will learn about the field of aerospace and then they apply what they have learned to design and test model planes, rockets, and drones. 

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (10th, 11th or 12th grade)

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. 

Digital Electronics (11th or 12th grade)

Students explore the foundations of computing by engaging in circuit design processes to create combinational logic and sequential logic (memory) as electrical engineers do in industry.

Engineering Design and Development (12th grade - Capstone Project)

Students identify a real-world challenge and then research, design, and test a solution, ultimately presenting their unique solutions to a panel of engineers.

Colorado STEM Diploma Endorsement Criteria

As authorized by HB17-1201

• Complete graduation requirements with a “high level of proficiency”

  • Meeting the additional requirements listed below along with the requirements for graduation from Jeffco Schools.

• Complete, with a 3.5+ average, a “coherent sequence” of at least 4 STEM related courses beyond graduation requirements.

  • Possible example: 4th year of math, 4th year of science, 2 STEM affiliated electives

• Proficiency in Mathematics

  • Predetermined by legislation, choose one of the following

    • 28+ on math ACT

    • 600+ on math SAT

    • 5+ on math IB test

    • 4+ on math AP test

    • 280+ on Accuplacer (advanced algebra and functions exam) 

    • 85 on ASVAB

• STEM Capstone  (This can be done in Engineering Design & Development)

  • Must demonstrate a “high level of mastery” for each of the following*:

    • Inquiry Based Learning, demonstrated by Asking Questions and Defining Problems

    • Creative Problem Solving, demonstrated by Applying Scientific and Mathematical Models to Explain Complex Ideas

    • Experimentation, demonstrated by Planning and Carrying out Investigations

    • Critical Thinking, demonstrated by Analyzing and Interpreting Data and Communicating Conclusions

    • Deductive and Inductive Reasoning, demonstrated by Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking

    • Understanding of Engineering Principles, demonstrated by Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

    • Effective Communication Skills, demonstrated by Engaging in Argument from Evidence

  • Must be designed with higher education and industry partners