Senn High School Lab to Receive Urgently Needed Facelift

CHICAGO, IL (April 9, 2009) — Federal funding for urgently needed renovations at Nicholas Senn High School were announced today by Rep. Jan Shackowsky, D-IL, before students, teachers, and administrators at Senn H.S. The funding will provide for two new state-of-the-art laboratory classrooms that will ensure students receive hands-on scientific instruction on par with neighboring school districts. Senn, like many schools in the Chicago Public School system, has struggled to keep classrooms up-to-date due to a lack of capital funding.

The federal funding will enable these students to receive a first-class science education that will benefit them for the rest of their lives. Rep. Schakowsky was joined by CPS CEO Ron Huberman for the announcement who received a tour of the science labs that will be renovated.

Rep. Schakowsky and Mr. Huberman spoke with students in a previously renovated classroom who were hard at work, utilizing state-of-the-art technology to explore science. Some the students who have benefited from the new resources already in place are working toward winning an award at upcoming science fairs.

The funding will replace antiquated labs that were absent of gas, running water, and proper ventilation, with a state of the art learning environment, which will provide students with the essential skill sets they need to compete on a global scale.

The new labs will provide basics such as plumbing, electrical, ventilation and safety features. As well as, make significant investment in experimental equipment and technology.

Senn High School has evolved into more than just a typical learning institution. The high school is becoming more of a community center, where kids have access to a range of resources and families feel welcome to join in the learning experience of students.

Senn High School is in a unique position to create a truly first rate learning environment and these science labs will serve as the foundation for this development. In addition, the labs will foster a sense of pride among students and faculty that will transcend some of the local community challenges and act as a catalyst for student achievement.