Hoboken Public School District Recognized Nationally for Excellence in STEM Education
Hoboken Public School District Recognized Nationally for Excellence in STEM Education
Hoboken Public School District and All Five Schools Earn PLTW Distinguished Honors
Hoboken, NJ (May 6, 2026) – The Hoboken Public School District is proud to announce it has been named a 2025–2026 Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished District, a national recognition that honors exceptional commitment to expanding student access, engagement, and achievement through high quality, career connected STEM education. The Hoboken Public School District has been named a Distinguished District by PLTW, further highlighting its leadership in innovative STEM programming.
In addition to this districtwide distinction, all five Hoboken schools have been recognized as PLTW Distinguished Schools:
- Joseph F. Brandt School
- Thomas G. Connors Elementary School
- Wallace Elementary School
- Hoboken Middle School
- Hoboken High School
Project Lead The Way is a nationally recognized nonprofit serving millions of students across the United States. Through its programs, students participate in hands-on, real world learning experiences in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, developing critical skills such as problem solving, collaboration, and analytical thinking that prepare them for future success.
The PLTW Distinguished Program Recognition celebrates schools and districts that demonstrate a strong commitment to broadening access to STEM opportunities, increasing student participation in STEM pathways, and delivering engaging, meaningful educational experiences.
“We are proud to honor the Hoboken Public School District for providing students with hands-on, career connected learning that builds the confidence, knowledge, and skills to navigate their futures,” said Dr. David Dimmett. “Their dedication to real world, project based learning ensures students receive an education that is both meaningful and directly connected to what comes next.”
This recognition reflects years of intentional investment by the district in expanding STEM programming, strengthening instructional practices, and equipping educators with the tools and professional development needed to deliver innovative, student centered learning. From elementary classrooms introducing foundational engineering concepts to advanced high school courses exploring biomedical science, computer science, and engineering design, Hoboken students are engaged in a comprehensive K–12 STEM pathway.
The district has also prioritized equitable access to these opportunities, ensuring that all students, regardless of background, can participate in and benefit from PLTW programs. By fostering inclusive classrooms and encouraging diverse student participation, Hoboken Public Schools continues to break down barriers and open doors to future careers in high demand fields.
Beyond the classroom, students have opportunities to apply their learning through collaborative projects, presentations, and real world problem solving experiences that mirror industry practices. These experiences not only deepen content knowledge but also help students build confidence, creativity, and resilience, skills essential for success in college, careers, and beyond.
As part of this achievement, each school will receive official PLTW Distinguished banners and promotional materials to celebrate and share their success with the community. The district will also highlight student work and program successes through upcoming events, community showcases, and partnerships with local organizations and industry professionals.
“Through Project Lead The Way, our students are not just engaging in STEM, they are thinking critically, solving real world problems, and building the confidence to envision themselves in future pathways that may once have felt out of reach,” said Assistant Superintendent of Schools Sandra Rodriguez Gomez. “We are incredibly proud of our educators, leaders, and students for bringing this work to life every day. We remain deeply committed to expanding access, strengthening engagement, and preparing all students to thrive in an ever changing world.”
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Christine Johnson added, “This recognition affirms our district’s mission to provide innovative, equitable, and forward thinking educational opportunities. We will continue to invest in programs like PLTW that inspire curiosity, empower students, and prepare them for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.”
About Project Lead The Way (PTLW)
Project Lead The Way (PLTW) is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization that provides transformative learning experiences in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to students across the United States. PLTW develops hands-on, real world curriculum designed to engage students in problem solving, critical thinking, and collaboration, with programs spanning elementary, middle, and high school to create a continuous pathway of learning and skill development.
At the elementary level, students are introduced to foundational concepts in engineering, computer science, and biomedical science through exploratory activities, while middle school students apply these concepts through structured, project based experiences focused on design and innovation. In high school, students can pursue specialized courses in areas such as engineering, computer science, and biomedical science, gaining exposure to career pathways and industry aligned skills. Through its emphasis on real world problem solving and teacher support, PLTW helps prepare millions of students for success in college, careers, and beyond.