LEONARDTOWN, MD — St. Mary’s Ryken High School has been named a 2024-25 Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished School, a prestigious recognition highlighting its commitment to fostering innovation through its Computer Science, Biomedical Science, and Engineering programs.
As one of a select group of high schools nationwide to receive this honor, the school stands out for empowering students with hands-on, real-world learning experiences that prepare them for future careers. The designation, awarded by PLTW, a national nonprofit dedicated to transformative STEM education, underscores St. Mary’s Ryken’s success in engaging students and equipping them with in-demand skills.
The PLTW Distinguished School recognition evaluates schools based on rigorous criteria from the 2023-24 academic year, including the number of PLTW courses offered, the percentage of students enrolled in these programs, and the proportion of students taking multiple PLTW courses. St. Mary’s Ryken excelled in these metrics, demonstrating broad access to and participation in its STEM-focused curriculum. “Being named a PLTW Distinguished School is a testament to our students’ passion for innovation and our teachers’ dedication to hands-on, real-world learning,” said Dean of Academics Jason DeLucco. “PLTW has transformed the way our students approach problem-solving, encouraging collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking that will serve them well in college, career, and life.”
Located in Leonardtown, St. Mary’s Ryken serves students across Southern Maryland, a region where STEM education is increasingly vital due to its proximity to major employers like Naval Air Station Patuxent River and technology-driven industries. The school’s PLTW programs—Computer Science, Biomedical Science, and Engineering—offer students opportunities to tackle real-world challenges, from designing software to exploring medical innovations and engineering solutions. These courses emphasize not only technical expertise but also essential skills like teamwork, communication, and critical thinking, aligning with Southern Maryland’s growing demand for a skilled workforce.
PLTW’s mission is to prepare students for the careers of tomorrow by integrating STEM disciplines with practical, collaborative learning. The organization partners with PreK-12 schools, colleges, universities, and corporate entities nationwide to create engaging educational experiences. St. Mary’s Ryken’s inclusion in this network reflects its alignment with these goals, providing students with pathways to success in fields like technology, healthcare, and engineering. “We are proud to honor SMR for their commitment to providing students with exceptional educational experiences through PLTW programs,” said Dr. David Dimmett, PLTW President and CEO. “This achievement celebrates their dedication to student achievement and their focus on empowering students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in school and a wide range of post-secondary opportunities.”
For Southern Maryland, where STEM industries drive economic growth, St. Mary’s Ryken’s recognition highlights the region’s role in cultivating future innovators. The school’s PLTW programs attract students from Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties, offering specialized courses that complement the area’s strong ties to defense, aerospace, and healthcare sectors. For instance, the Biomedical Science program prepares students for careers in medical research and healthcare, fields with significant local demand due to facilities like MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital. Similarly, the Engineering program aligns with opportunities at nearby Pax River, where engineering and technology roles are critical.
The school’s achievement builds on its long-standing commitment to academic excellence and innovation. St. Mary’s Ryken, a Catholic, coeducational institution, has integrated PLTW into its curriculum to provide students with cutting-edge learning opportunities while maintaining a focus on holistic development. The PLTW programs encourage students to collaborate on projects, such as designing sustainable technologies or solving complex biomedical problems, fostering skills that are transferable to both college and professional settings.
As St. Mary’s Ryken continues to expand its PLTW offerings, it remains a leader in preparing Southern Maryland students for the challenges of a rapidly evolving global economy. The recognition as a PLTW Distinguished School not only celebrates past achievements but also signals a commitment to sustaining high-quality STEM education. For students, this means access to transformative learning experiences that open doors to careers in fields critical to Southern Maryland’s future, from cybersecurity to renewable energy. The school’s success serves as a model for other institutions in the region, reinforcing the importance of innovative education in building a skilled and adaptable workforce.
