Science & Project Lead The Way
Department Lead, Biology, Marine Biology, Medical Interventions (PLTW-MI)
AP Biology, Human Body Systems (PLTW-HBS), Principles of Engineering (PLTW-POE)
Integrated Science 7, Gateway to Technology (PLTW-GTT)
Lindeman, Katlynn
Integrated Science 8
Chemistry, AP Chemistry
Physics, AP Physics
Biology, Principles of Biomedical Science (PLTW-PBS)
Science
Mission
UPA's science department is committed to providing a challenging, engaging, and inclusive science education for all students in grades 7–12. Through hands-on investigations, collaborative learning, and the integration of real-world applications, our teachers will foster curiosity, creativity, and scientific reasoning.
Vision
UPA's science department vision is to inspire curious, critical-thinking, and scientifically literate students who are prepared to understand and engage with the natural world.
Science Core Pathway
PLTW (Project Lead The Way)
Mission
The PLTW program is committed to providing engaging, hands-on, and project-based learning experiences that challenge students to apply science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) concepts to real-world problems. Through a rigorous and collaborative curriculum, students in grades 7–12 will develop critical thinking, creativity, communication, and technical skills while building confidence as innovators and lifelong learners. Our mission is to prepare students to thrive in postsecondary education, careers, and civic life by equipping them with the knowledge and mindset necessary to shape the future.
Vision
Our vision is to empower all students to become innovative thinkers, creative problem-solvers, and future-ready leaders through transformative STEM experiences. By fostering curiosity, collaboration, and perseverance, we inspire students to explore engineering, biomedical science, computer science, and emerging technologies while developing the skills needed to succeed in college, careers, and a rapidly evolving world.
Project Lead the Way Pathway
All students have the option of enrolling in Project Lead the Way electives. Freshmen can enroll in Principles of Biomedical Science (PBS) concurrently with Biology. After PBS, students will enroll in Human Body Systems and then Medical Interventions the next year.
For the Engineering Pathway, middle school students can enroll in Gateway to Technology as a 7th grader or 8th grader. Students also have the option of taking the course again in 8th grade. In high school, students can enroll in Principles of Engineering (POE). They do not need to take GTT to enroll in POE. However, it is helpful to have some background knowledge from GTT.
High School Graduation Requirements
UPA requires students to take at least 3 high-school science courses. Biology and Chemistry are required, and then students can choose from additional electives for the third course. These electives also include Project Lead The Way courses.
All students must pass the courses with a “C-” in order for the courses to be eligible for graduation.
UNIVERSITY PREPARATORY ACADEMY
2315 Canoas Garden Avenue
San Jose, CA 95125
408.723.1839
