Brentwood Middle School has been recognized as a 2025-26 Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished School. This honor is awarded to a select number of middle schools across the country for their commitment to increasing student access, engagement and achievement in career-connected learning through PLTW Gateway, a STEM curriculum for grades 6-8.

This marks the second time Brentwood Middle School has earned this distinction, previously receiving the honor during the 2019-20 school year.

“This recognition speaks to the strength and consistency of the learning experiences taking place every day at Brentwood Middle School,” said Dr. Amy Zielinski, superintendent of schools. “Through PLTW, our students are building strong skills in science, technology, engineering and math, while also learning to think critically, solve problems and explore new possibilities. These experiences help prepare them for success in high school and beyond.”

PLTW is a national nonprofit organization that creates transformative learning experiences and empowers students to develop in-demand knowledge and skills for future careers.

The PLTW Distinguished School recognition honors schools committed to increasing student access, engagement and achievement in their PLTW programs. To be eligible, Brentwood Middle School met a variety of criteria, including student participation in PLTW courses, opportunities to engage in multiple PLTW units, the number of courses offered and efforts to ensure broad access to the program.

Research shows that middle school is a critical time for shaping future success in high school, college and careers. Through PLTW Gateway, students engage in real-world, project-based learning experiences — from designing automated systems to exploring aerospace concepts — while building collaboration skills and confidence in STEM subjects.

“We are proud to honor Brentwood Middle School for providing students with hands-on, career-connected learning experiences that build the knowledge and skills needed for the future,” said Dr. David Dimmett, PLTW president and CEO. “Their commitment to real-world, project-based learning ensures students experience education that is meaningful and directly connected to what comes next.”

Brentwood Middle School is part of a national PLTW network of schools, higher education institutions and industry partners working together to prepare students for school, work and life.

For more information about PLTW and its Distinguished School recognition, visit the Project Lead The Way website.