Spark

Ingenuity

Build something big.

THE INSTITUTE of TECHNOLOGY, INNOVATION, AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Our signature Institute of Technology, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship (TIE) is a catalyst to fields that define the world of tomorrow. We prepare students to become global citizens in a technology-driven society by linking education to their future.

Courses include:

  • Programming and design
  • Digital literacy
  • Global business and innovation
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Science, technology, and engineering
  • Art and mathematics


Our students learn skills to shape a more just, equitable and sustainable world, just as Sarah Porter envisioned.

Introductory Course

The Intro to TIE class focuses on hands-on experience and skill development in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math). Required for grade 9.

Elective Course Strands

Technology

Emphasizes building skills and using technological tools—it’s unimaginable.

Innovation

Focuses on design,
systems and creative
problem-solving.

Entrepreneurship

Explores start-ups to IPO’s including idea generators, process, product and the “bottom line”.

TIE After-school Programs

Opportunities for real-world experience further expose students to STEAM and entrepreneurship programs. These interactive, project-based experiences vary but can include:

Robotics

Start-up lab
engineering
data science
a.i.

Porter's iLab

The Porter’s Innovation Lab (iLab) is the incentive for tomorrow’s technology. Students can develop and hone skills using technical tools including: printers, laser cutters and engravers, microcontrolers, CAD workstations and a machine shop to work in wood, metals and plastics.

TIE Certificate

Porter’s signature TIE Certificate is a unique path in STEAM and entrepreneurship courses linking action, experimentation and improvisation. Students have the opportunity to design real-world solutions and gain hands-on experience—changemakers in the making!

PORTER’S SIGNATURE TIE Certificate Requirements

Freshman Introduction to TIE course

Three TIE electives in one concentration

Two TIE Seasonal After-school programs

Senior TIE AIS Capstone project

A summer program or non-credit course in TIE-related fields

Participation in a hackathon, competition or similar activity

A year of active leadership in a TIE-related club

Meet the Faculty
Ryan Bliss

Chair - Technology, Innovation, Entrepreneurship

Lee Beckwith

Penn Fellow T.I.E

John Bryk

Teacher - Mathematics, T.I.E.

Lesley Skenderian

Teacher - Science & Global Seminar Series

Explore More Opportunities