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Center for Biomedical Sciences and Engineering

Students working at a table in a science classroom one student pointing at a 3-D heart

The Coon Rapids High School Center for Biomedical Sciences and Engineering program is designed to expose students to STEM-related careers, including those in the medical, engineering, manufacturing, and technology fields. 

Through the program, students will experience a sequence of Project Lead the Way (PLTW) courses through either the Biomedical Sciences or Engineering pathway.  The hands-on, real-world courses actively engage students in their learning through the use of cutting-edge laboratory and engineering techniques, peer collaboration, and opportunities to interact with professionals in the field.  Students in our program are inspired by the relevant and engaging curriculum as they develop foundational tools for their future college and career success!  Coon Rapids High School Center for Biomedical Sciences and Engineering is a PLTW Distinguished School!

The Center for Biomedical Sciences and Engineering is part of the Northwest Suburban Integration School District.

Students from the seven-district collaborative can apply to attend Coon Rapids High School's Biomedical Sciences and Engineering program. Free bus transportation is provided. Visit the NWSISD website for additional information. Magnet Priority Lottery Application dates are October 15 - December 17, 2025.

 APPLY ONLINE

Application instructions

Center for Biomedical Sciences and Engineering contact

Lana Rice

Curriculum Integration Coordinator
Work: (763) 506-7359

 

Students at a desk in a science room one student pointing at a skeleton

 

Our program is for students who:

  • Have an interest in the medical, engineering, manufacturing, or technology fields.
  • Enjoy science and math courses.
  • Like applying your knowledge to real-world scenarios.
  • Demonstrate a strong work ethic and enjoy the challenge of rigorous courses.
Students standing by a presentation board smiling

 

Skills students need for successful participation in the program:

  • Academic skills that are at or above grade level.
  • Ability to work cooperatively with a group of students.
  • 90% work completion.
  • 90% attendance.
  • Accommodations or modifications may be provided, but will affect the student's ability to receive college credit
Students work together on a clawbot

 

Students within our program benefit by:

  • Enrolling in program courses not offered elsewhere.
  • Applied learning: hands-on, relevant, and compelling coursework.
  • Students solve real-world problems deploying the skills and tools professionals use.
  • Explore career paths related to the medical, engineering, manufacturing, and technology fields.
  • Develop a foundation of knowledge to help with further education at a two- or four-year college.
  • Develop transferrable skills such as critical reasoning, problem solving, and collaboration.
  • Engage with professional mentors as they provide insight and guidance on capstone projects.
  • Potential to earn college credits
Students explaining projects at Medtronic to Superintendent Cory McIntyre

 

Program eligibility:

Students must apply through the Northwest Suburban Integration School District Magnet School Application. The priority application window is October 15 through December 17, 2025. For both the Biomedical Sciences and Engineering pathways, applications are accepted in grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. 

Students from the following districts may apply:

  • Anoka-Hennepin
  • Brooklyn Center
  • Buffalo-Hanover-Montrose
  • Elk River
  • Fridley
  • Osseo
  • Rockford

Biomedical Sciences pathway

Project Lead the Way's Biomedical Sciences curriculum is a sequence of courses, that follows a proven hands-on, real-world, problem-solving approach to learning. Working with the same equipment and tools as lab professionals, Biomedical Sciences students are empowered to explore and find solutions to some of today's most pressing medical challenges. Students step into the roles of biomedical science professionals and investigate topics including human medicine, physiology, genetics, microbiology, and public health. Students work collaboratively in teams to find unique solutions, and in the process, learn in-demand, transferable skills such as critical thinking and communication.

Engineering pathway

Project Lead the Way's Engineering curriculum empowers students to step into the varied roles engineers play in our society, discover new career paths and possibilities, and develop engineering knowledge and skills. The program's courses engage students in compelling, real-world challenges that help them become better collaborators and thinkers. In addition, students work in teams to design and test solutions.

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