Metcalfe Opens New Science Lab with Help from GRU
Lab provides students with hands-on learning
September 4, 2009
GRU hosted the grand opening of a new science lab for Metcalfe Elementary School on Thursday, Sept. 3. The event was the culmination of a year of planning, fundraising and community cooperation to provide students an interactive space to experiment and learn.
“Hands-on experiences are a must to make science courses both relevant and exciting,” said Felecia Moss, Metcalfe principal. “This dream is now a reality. What we have is a perfect example of what our motto is here at Metcalfe: Together we can make a difference.”
Metcalfe approached GRU in the spring of 2008 for money to purchase prizes and incentives for the students, but following a detailed discussion it was determined that a better way for GRU to assist the school would be to help them achieve a long-term goal— the creation of a science lab.
The school determined the cost of the lab would be $9,000. GRU committed to providing one third of the lab’s expenses, then approached Gainesville Health and Fitness Center and the United Way of North Central Florida for the balance. Both organizations committed additional funds and Metcalfe secured a state grant to make up the difference. The University of Florida and Santa Fe College agreed to provide curriculum support in the form of visiting professors and field trips to campus facilities supporting the sciences.
“This is a pilot program that, if successful, can be replicated in other deserving schools throughout the public school system,” GRU Community Relations Director Nona Jones said. “It is our desire that this lab provide the type of interaction and intellectual stimulation these children need to get engaged with the curriculum and pass the FCAT science test.”
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