P.K. Yonge receives national recognition from Project Lead The Way

Press release from P.K. Yonge Developmental Research School

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – P.K. Yonge announced that it has been recognized as a 2025-26 Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished School. It is among a select group of high schools across the U.S. to receive this honor for its commitment to increasing student access, engagement, and achievement in career-connected learning. Through its PLTW Engineering program, P.K. Yonge is helping students develop transferable skills needed to succeed in an evolving future.  

“Being recognized as a PLTW Distinguished School reflects P.K. Yonge’s commitment to preparing students for success beyond the classroom through meaningful, hands-on learning experiences,” said Dr. Ashley Pennypacker Hill, P.K. Yonge secondary principal. “Our PLTW Engineering program challenges students to think critically, solve real-world problems, and collaborate in ways that mirror today’s workforce. We are proud to provide opportunities that help students discover their passions while building the skills and confidence needed for their future careers.”

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 for the designation, P.K. Yonge had to meet multiple criteria in the 2024-25 school year, such as the number of PLTW courses available to students, the percentage of students enrolled in PLTW, and the percentage of students taking more than one PLTW course.  

“We are proud to honor P.K. Yonge for giving students hands-on, career-connected learning that builds the confidence, knowledge, and skills to navigate their futures,” 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.”