Project Lead The Way (PLTW) review
Structured STEM programs pair classroom pathways with myPLTW courses and teacher guides.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Project Lead The Way (PLTW) provides structured PreK–12 STEM and career-connected curriculum for schools and districts. Its Launch, Gateway, Algebra 1 Advantage, Computer Science, Engineering, and Biomedical Science pathways pair project- and problem-based activities with the myPLTW web platform. Teachers get facilitation notes and embedded resources; students access courses through rosters. This school-focused model suits organizations seeking a planned sequence of STEM learning rather than individual learners looking for a standalone course.
The program menu covers a broad range of subjects and ages, with standards connection documents across programs, virtual computer labs for course software, and classroom software and hardware specifications. myPLTW also supports feedback and grading, except in PLTW Launch. Clever is the listed integration. These features make PLTW relevant for schools coordinating curriculum and classroom delivery across pathways; buyers should check the fit of individual courses and classroom requirements before choosing a program.
According to the vendor's published plans, participation fees are annual and charged per program: Algebra 1 Advantage is $500; Launch and Gateway are $950 each; Computer Science and Biomedical Science are $2,200 each; and Engineering is $3,200. Plans include unlimited software licenses. Launch and Gateway add continuous curriculum updates, 24/7 support, and distance-learning resources; the higher-priced subject programs include end-of-course assessments, distance-learning resources, and community access. Professional development is separate, so schools should budget for it independently. PLTW is a stronger fit for schools seeking comprehensive curriculum pathways and teacher resources than for buyers seeking a free or individually priced learning platform.
Project Lead The Way (PLTW) pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Pathways span Launch, Gateway, Algebra, computing, engineering, and biomedical science
- myPLTW includes student courses, teacher guides, and facilitation resources
- Virtual computer labs and standards connection documents support instruction
- Where it doesn't
- Programs are billed annually, starting at $500 per program
- Professional development is a separate cost
- Feedback and grading capabilities exclude PLTW Launch
Project Lead The Way (PLTW) fact sheet, pricing and score →
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