FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CLOVIS, N.M., Oct. 26, 2026 — Barry STEAM Academy welcomed leaders and curriculum developers from Project Lead The Way (PLTW) on Oct. 22 for a firsthand look at how students build English language arts and math skills through hands-on science, technology, engineering and mathematics projects.
The school integrates English language arts and mathematics directly into the PLTW curriculum, connecting academic skills with opportunities for students to explore, design and solve problems.
The delegation included Joel Kupperstein, executive vice president and chief product officer; Jason Rausch, senior vice president of instructional development; Steve Pellathy, director of instructional development for launch; Madison Chan, product manager for launch; and Christine Petersen, a PLTW team member and parent of Barry STEAM Academy students.
Throughout the morning, the visitors observed kindergarten, first-, third- and fifth-grade classrooms, along with a Robotics Fundamentals class. The visits offered a look at a typical school day and how teachers connect learning across subjects.
During a follow-up discussion with school staff, the PLTW team praised the school’s innovative approach, noting that they had not seen the curriculum integrated in this way at any other school. The team also highlighted students’ extensive use of academic vocabulary and strong engagement across the classrooms they visited.
Barry STEAM Academy teachers report that this approach has helped students become more confident and independent learners. Through science instruction and the design process, students have learned to view failure not as something to be feared, but as an opportunity to revise their ideas, test new solutions and try again.
Teachers have also observed increased discussion and collaboration among students. Those skills extend beyond individual projects, supporting learning across subjects and positive interactions even on the playground.
Project Lead The Way is a national nonprofit organization that provides hands-on STEM curriculum for students in preschool through high school. Its programs connect classroom learning with real-world challenges, helping students develop problem-solving, critical thinking and collaboration skills.
