Overview
What is 3DE?
3DE is an instructional model that infuses real-world connections into the traditional learning model in a way that makes school more relevant and engaging. It was developed through a shared vision from Junior Achievement and leaders in both education and business. By giving education real-world context, 3DE empowers, inspires, and better prepares students for life after graduation, fully equipped for the demands of tomorrow's economy.
How does 3DE work?
3DE in PGCPS is embedded in a four-year interdisciplinary curriculum that incorporates case-based methods, project-based learning, and real-world problems within the Business Marketing Pathway. This learning model is proven to increase student engagement, strengthen comprehension, build critical thinking, and accelerate academic performance. It incorporates four C's:
- COMPETENCIES: There are six competencies, or skill sets, that 3DE’s interdisciplinary curriculum is built upon: creativity, cultural agility, critical thinking, collaboration, problem-solving, and self-direction. By developing these competencies, students gain valuable, competitive, and real-world 21st-century skills that expose them to career pathways and industries and prepare them to become strategic decision-makers.
- CASES: Learning and curricula are built around real-world, real-time business case challenges from regional and national companies. Students then make connections to core subjects, like math and English, to solve the cases. This approach connects students with local business professionals and makes lessons more relevant, memorable, and engaging.
- COHORTS: Teachers and students are grouped into small cohorts, which builds a sense of camaraderie and trust. 3DE coursework is supported by an interdisciplinary team of five to eight teachers. This self-contained structure helps students boost their confidence and engagement.
- COLLABORATION: 3DE encourages student collaboration through small group learning—from group discussions to project-based assignments. This approach boosts social and emotional skills and closely mimics the real world.
Working together over the course of a 3DE student’s high school career, the Four C’s look like this:
- 9th-10th Grades - Students collaboratively research the problem and develop solutions, which they present to business partners and affiliates in a multimedia presentation.
- 11th Grade - Students analyze real-world problems and the solutions applied to connect to their year-long business development project.
- 12th Grade - Students become consultants to business partners, advising them on a current problem and applying the culmination of the competencies they acquired in 9th through 11th grades.
Graduation Credentials
PGCPS 3DE graduates earn a high school diploma and accomplish the following:
- Earn Industry Recognized Credentials:
- Six Sigma White Belt and Yellow Belt Certification
- Intuit/QuickBooks Certified User Online Certification
- Adobe Certified Professional Certification (beginning SY28)
- Explore a wide range of premier companies, careers, and industries;
- Visit colleges and universities;
- Develop critical soft skills needed for success, no matter what career they pursue;
- Build professional resumes and networks; and
- Develop meaningful, personal, and professional connections - 3DE is a family!
Requirements to Enroll and Complete Program:
Enrollment Enrollment in the 3DE Business Marketing program is limited to students attending one of the district's 3DE schools. Offered in partnership with 3DE by Junior Achievement, the program is available exclusively at:
- Central High School
- Fairmont Heights High School
- Potomac High School, and
- Surrattsville High School.
Please contact the counseling department at each respective high school for more information. There are no costs associated with participation in 3DE.
Check out the 3DE Flyer
