Project-based learning (PBL) holds promise for students in urban high schools by creating personalized, engaging, and relevant experiences that prepare students for post-secondary pathways. This exploratory study focused on understanding the implementation of PBL in an urban STEM high school that includes career pathways where students engage in work that reflects industry practices. Data revealed essential features of successful PBL, including ideas for supporting and implementing PBL in an urban high school that enrolls students from historically under-resourced communities. Findings highlight the value of PBL for supporting urban students as they explore their interests.

Teacher attrition continues to pose a challenge for our nation’s schools, particularly in high-poverty or high-need schools such as those in urban and rural communities. Despite having years of tra...