Project Lead the Way (PLTW)

The Academy of Engineering (AOE) at Ramsay IB High School was created to incorporate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) related activities into a regular classroom environment. We use the PLTW (Project Lead The Way) curriculum as a foundational connection to the Engineering concentration. Students in the Academy will take one PLTW elective course per year and also advanced core classes, including Mathematics, Science, English, and History. Students in the program may also take other electives as their schedule permits. 

PLTW Courses

• 9th Grade - Introduction to Engineering Design (IED)

• 10th Grade - Principles of Engineering (POE)

• 11th Grade - Digital Electronics (DE)

• 12th Grade - Engineering Design and Development (DE)

NAF

The Academy of Engineering is a National Academy Foundation (NAF) Distinguished Academy and follows the NAF educational design. NAF is a national network of educational, business, and community leaders who work together to ensure high school students are college, career, and future ready. NAF’s educational design ignites students’ passion for learning and gives businesses the opportunity to shape America’s future workforce by transforming the learning environment to include STEM-infused industry-specific curricula and work-based learning experiences, including internships. NAF has grown from one NAF Academy of Finance in New York City to hundreds of academies across the country focusing on growing industries including: finance, hospitality & tourism, information technology, engineering, and health sciences. For the latest data demonstrating the power of NAF, visit NAF. 

Admission Policy

To be considered for acceptance into the Academy of Engineering, students must be admitted to Ramsay IB High School, and must maintain the minimum required standards of the school. Students complete an application to express their interest in the program. The Academy of Engineering follows an open enrollment model and admits students from diverse backgrounds with a shared interest in STEM careers, specifically Engineering. 

To qualify for admission to Ramsay IB High School, students must complete the Birmingham City Schools Specialty School application and submit the required supporting documentation as outlined in the application. Once the application packet is reviewed, parents are notified by email if their student meets the eligibility requirements to be invited to take the entrance exam. Students admitted into RIBHS must maintain a 2.5 GPA and exemplary behavior. If a student does not meet either of these requirements, the student may be dismissed from the program.