Science classrooms in Building 4 have undergone a makeover in the recent months following a district facility assessment. 

According to Principal Rick Fleming, the rooms were built in 1953 for general classroom space and were last refurbished in 1992 to be used for science classes. The recent renovations include new tables, cabinets, floors and overhead electrical outlets.  

“I’m just happy to see there’s finally some attention because those were the [building’s] original labs,” Fleming said. “Now, the labs are finally up to speed.”

Vice Principal Catherine Halbuer, who worked with the district to coordinate the project, said it took place over the summer, and its budget was $653,052. 

Science teacher Jeffrey Kelly said he was glad to see the changes. 

“Having the additional space, having the ability to move around the tables and everything else helps with grouping, changing up student activities and just getting opportunities to do things a little bit differently,” Kelly said. “The setup we have now also has more storage [compared to the older labs].”

Allison Vautier, who previously worked at Astronaut High School, is the new seventh-grade science and Anatomy and Physiology teacher. After moving into the renovated lab, she also noted the upgrades.

“It’s a lot nicer,” Vautier said. “The electricity is really nice [and] useful. It’s a little bit cleaner and tidier, and not as dated. There’s also a good overall outlook from students.”

By Kristen Ye