Engineering Pathway & Robotics

Project Lead the Way

The STEM elective classes prepare you for the “real world” with hands-on activities, projects and problem based-challenges. Many former students confess how these classes gave them a competitive edge in college and the job market. These classes focuses on learning how to be professional and to be a great team member. You can say that these classes prepare you for jobs that do not currently exist. Now that you are intrigued, here are some brief descriptions of the classes.

Gateway: Computer Science

6th Grade: (1st trimester)
Computer Science for Makers and Innovators
Throughout the unit, students will learn about programming for the physical world by blending hardware design and software development, allowing students to discover computer science concepts and skills by creating personally relevant, tangible, and shareable projects.

Gateway: Robotics

6th, 7th, or 8th Grade (Year-long)
Automation and Robotics
Students learn about the history and impact of automation and robotics as they explore mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Using the VEX Robotics® platform, students apply what they know to design and program traffic lights, robotic arms, and more.

Robotics Competition Training
Students learn about robotics competition as they explore the fundamentals and the setup. Using the VEX Robotics® platform, students apply what they know to movement, remote control and programming sensors.

Gateway: Design and Modeling and Competitions

7th or 8th Grade (Year-long)
In the VEX Robotics Competition, presented by the Robotics Education & Competition Foundation, teams of students are tasked with designing and building a robot to play against other teams in a game-based engineering challenge. Classroom STEM concepts are put to the test as students learn lifelong skills in teamwork, leadership, communication, and more. Tournaments are held year-round at the regional, state, and national levels and culminate at VEX Robotics World Championship.

Design and Modeling (DM)
This course allows students to apply the design process to solve problems and understand the influence of creativity and innovation in their lives. They work in teams to design a playground and furniture, capturing research and ideas in their engineering notebooks. Using Autodesk® design software, students create a virtual image of their designs and produce a portfolio to showcase their innovative solutions.