J.M. Huber Announces $500,000 Grant Contribution to PLTW to Expand Access to STEM Curriculum to Elementary Students

Indianapolis, Ind. – J.M Huber Corporation (Huber) and Project Lead The Way announced today $500,000 in grants to support and implement PLTW Launch programs in 50 schools throughout Huber’s 27 communities across the United States.

These grants will increase access to hands-on learning experiences for hundreds of elementary students in the 2023-24 and 2024-25 school years by supporting the implementation of PLTW Launch.

“We are proud to partner with Huber and are thankful for their support in implementing PLTW Launch in communities across the U.S.,” stated Dr. David Dimmett, PLTW President and CEO. “Introducing STEM skills at a young age is essential to helping students see their potential beyond the classroom. Partnerships like this are preparing the next generation of students for great careers and other life opportunities.”

PLTW Launch (PreK-5) taps into students’ exploratory nature, engages them in learning that feels like play, and encourages them to keep discovering. Students build in-demand skills through inspiring activities that aren’t typical in a traditional classroom.

The modules immerse students in energized, hands-on activities, projects, and problems that build upon each other and relate to the real world. Students experience integrated learning that blends computer science, engineering, biomedical science, math, literacy skills and more. Through the modules, even the youngest learners apply their math and English Language Arts (ELA) skills, learn science to standards, and adopt skills that are foundational across disciplines. Additionally, to support rigorous learning for all students, including America’s 5 million English Language Learners, all PLTW Launch students and teachers have access to curriculum in both English and Spanish.

“Our investment in STEM programming in schools in the communities where Huber operates is a reflection of our commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and making STEM education more available to girls and children from underrepresented populations,” said Lily Prost, EVP & CHRO of Human Resources of Huber. “As a multi-generational, family-owned business, we believe that providing education to children helps build stronger, more equitable and resilient communities and societies. We’re proud to support Project Lead the Way in their mission to transform the learning experience for children and teachers across the US.”

Huber and PLTW announced its initial partnership in May of 2022. Huber provides funding for STEM curriculum and training in underrepresented communities as part of Huber Helps. Huber’s new grant of $500,000 to PLTW follows its initial investment of $250,000 to increase access to STEM education in schools across the U.S.

About PLTW

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) is a mission-driven organization that is transforming the learning experience for millions of PreK-12 students and thousands of teachers across the U.S. PLTW empowers students to develop in-demand, transportable knowledge and skills through pathways in computer science, engineering, and biomedical science. PLTW’s teacher training and resources support teachers as they engage their students in real-world learning. Approximately 12,200 elementary, middle, and high schools in all 50 states and the District of Columbia offer PLTW programs. For more information on Project Lead The Way, visit pltw.org.

About J.M. Huber Corporation

J.M. Huber Corporation is committed to donating 1% of its net income annually to not-for-profit organizations as well as creating community engagement opportunities for its employees around the world. As part of its strategic approach to philanthropy—Huber Helps—the Company focuses on three pillars: Affordable Housing, Education and Wellness and Environmental causes. These efforts also support the Company’s Sustainability and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion goals. Partnerships and funded initiatives are intentionally located near Huber sites to create a lasting legacy in communities where Huber employees live. Since formalizing the Huber Helps program in 2018, the Company has donated over $9 million to more than 500 organizations around the world.

For more information about Huber Helps, visit the Huber Helps webpage.