Information for Incoming Freshmen

Welcome to the Riverside Engineering family! Here's what you and your student need to know as you begin the PLTW engineering pathway.

Getting Into the Program

Riverside's engineering program is a magnet program within Durham Public Schools. Students are admitted through the DPS magnet lottery. The application window is typically in the winter for the following school year. Both in-district and out-of-district students may apply. In-district students almost always automatically win the lottery.

Tip: Watch the DPS website for lottery dates and deadlines. Apply early and list Riverside Engineering as your first choice for the best chance of placement.

What to Expect Freshman Year

As a freshman engineering student, your student will take Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) as their first PLTW course. This class introduces the engineering design process, 3D modeling software (Onshape), and collaborative problem-solving. No prior engineering experience is needed.

Students will work on hands-on projects, learning to apply math and science to real-world design challenges. They'll use engineering notebooks to document their work and design process throughout the year.

In addition to IED, freshmen follow the standard RHS academic schedule including core subjects (English, Math, Science, Social Studies) and electives.

Supplies & Materials

The engineering program provides most specialized tools and software to minimize costs for families. REPAC helps fund equipment and materials. Here's what you'll need for IED:

School-Provided (No Cost to Families)

Software: Onshape (3D CAD modeling software) and supporting design tools
Lab Equipment: 3D printers, measurement tools, and prototyping materials
Computer Access: Dedicated engineering lab laptops
Engineering Notebook: Bound notebook with graph paper for documenting the design process

Student/Family-Provided Supplies

Basic Writing Tools: Pencils, erasers, colored pencils, highlighters
Organization: Folder or binder with dividers for course materials (recommended)

Note: Complete supply lists are distributed by the engineering faculty at the start of the school year. Contact IED teacher Emily Quadrio for the most current requirements.

Getting Involved

REPAC Meetings: Parents are encouraged to attend monthly meetings (2nd Thursday, 6 PM, Media Center). This is the best way to stay informed and connected.
TSA (Technology Student Association): A competitive STEM organization open to all engineering students. Freshmen are welcome and encouraged to join!
Social Events: REPAC organizes social events to help students and families connect.

Learn more about student activities →

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions? Check out our FAQ pages:

Engineering FAQ REPAC FAQ

Key Contacts

The Riverside High School engineering department faculty are your primary contacts for course and program questions.

Mike Dibble — Computer Science Principles (CSP) & Computer Science A (CSA)
William Oakley — Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM)
Ryan Patridge — Digital Electronics (DE)
Drew Byers — Computer Science Essentials (CSE)
Benjamin Drugatz — Principles of Engineering (POE)
Emily Quadrio — Introduction to Engineering Design (IED)

For general school inquiries, contact Riverside High School's main office.