LA PLATA, Md. (Feb. 24, 2009)—Robert Bushman, a biology and biomedical sciences teacher at La Plata High School, was recently named a lead teacher for the Principles of Biomedical Sciences program for Project Lead the Way (PLTW). He was recommended for the position by other PLTW teachers, La Plata Principal Evelyn Arnold, and John Holmes, the science department chair and teacher at La Plata.
As a PLTW lead teacher, Bushman will be responsible for teaching this summer during a training institute for other teachers. He will help guide new teachers through the program coursework, labs, curriculum, software and program protocols. Bushman said he has participated in PLTW for the past two years and thoroughly enjoys working with students and staff involved in the program.
"The program itself is a blast. It is a very team-oriented program that the kids relate to and love learning more about. My students are constantly engaged by the variety of activities, the course work and the hands-on aspect of the program," he said.
The PLTW Biomedical Sciences program is a four-year series of courses designed to bring students closer to the possibilities of a career in a medical-based field. The courses are integrated into the students' core curriculum and are designed to expand upon college preparatory math and science programs.
Bushman said his students all enjoy participating in the program. "It is a wonderful experience to see all of my students eager for what the program holds next and the future of the program," he said.
PLTW is a non-profit organization that promotes pre-engineering courses for middle and high school students. The program seeks to build partnerships with public schools to increase student interest in engineering.