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Oxford Today
By the People, for the People
Oxford High School Teacher Wins National Award
Scott Wooddell named PLTW Computer Science Teacher of the Year
Mar. 26, 2026 at 10:38pm
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Scott Wooddell, a computer science teacher at Oxford Area High School in Pennsylvania, has been named the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Computer Science Teacher of the Year. Wooddell was recognized for his work in expanding access to computer science courses and inspiring student interest in technology.
Why it matters
This award highlights Oxford High School's commitment to STEM education and its efforts to make computer science accessible to all students, not just the 'elite learners.' Wooddell's recognition demonstrates the impact teachers can have in sparking student interest and breaking down barriers in tech fields.
The details
Wooddell was selected from over 3,000 submissions nationwide for the PLTW Teacher of the Year award. He was praised by the school principal for strategically adding PLTW courses to allow diverse students to take computer science classes and for working to 'break the stigma that computer science is only for the elite learner.' Four of Wooddell's students spoke at the award ceremony, crediting him for supporting their passions and inspiring their interest in technology.
- Wooddell received the award at Oxford Area High School's faculty meeting on March 23, 2026.
- Oxford has used the PLTW curriculum for 13 years.
The players
Scott Wooddell
A computer science teacher at Oxford Area High School who was named the PLTW Computer Science Teacher of the Year.
Jamie Canaday
The principal of Oxford Area High School who praised Wooddell's work and contributions to the school's computer science program.
Keenan Thomas
A senior student at Oxford Area High School who spoke at the award ceremony and credited Wooddell for inspiring his interest in computers and technology.
Dave Dimmett
The CEO of Project Lead the Way (PLTW) who surprised Wooddell by coming to the school to present him with the award.
Dana Webb
A ninth grade English teacher at Oxford Area High School who was awarded the Citadel Heart of Learning Award.
What they’re saying
“As an administrator who's worked with Scott for 20 years, I admire his passion for learning and his desire to have our computer science program on the cutting edge for our students. But most importantly, over the past 10 years, Scott's vision for computer science is that every student has a seat in his class regardless of their background.”
— Jamie Canaday, Principal, Oxford Area High School
“Mr. Wooddell has been a cornerstone of my high school experience, as well as somebody who has supported me in pursuing my passions. Mr. Wooddell has inspired my interest in computers and technology in a way that I will never forget, even as a student in college and I believe that he will continue to do great things here at Oxford. Thank you and congratulations, Mr. Wooddell.”
— Keenan Thomas, Senior Student
“I don't ever want to forget the value and importance of a classroom teacher and a group of teachers coming together in their community to serve young people. By coming out to do this, it helps us see the community, talk to students, talk to other educators and it always positions our work right where it belongs, in the heart of a community.”
— Dave Dimmett, CEO, Project Lead the Way
“I do this for the students. I enjoy working with them, especially that bunch, those four kids that came up, I've worked with them for three, four years. That's what's kind of neat about doing a program like this, where many of the kids take more than one of my classes so I get to see a progression with them and build a relationship over time with students.”
— Scott Wooddell
What’s next
Wooddell's award comes with a $1,000 cash prize, a $2,000 prize for the school, and an all-expenses-paid trip for him to attend the PLTW National Convention.
The takeaway
This award highlights Oxford High School's commitment to making STEM education, particularly computer science, accessible to all students. Wooddell's recognition demonstrates the impact passionate teachers can have in inspiring student interest and breaking down barriers in tech fields.
