UMEI science lab gets a makeover

By Matt Weingarden

Teachers, students and parents gathered for a ribbon cutting ceremony to commemorate the grand opening of the newly renovated science lab at United Mennonite Education Institute on Sunday Sept. 25.

     "We are celebrating the makeover of the UMEI science lab which was originally built in 1970," said Science Instructor John Fittler. "We made plans at the end the last school year that this renovation was going to happen. By the first week in August we started tearing the old lab apart and then began construction."

     The old lab had provided the setting for students interested in science for over 40 years, but over time had become outdated and run down. The particle board cupboards had deteriorated and were hard to open. They have now been replaced by new powder-coated glass cupboards making it easy to see where supplies are stored. Lab benches surround the room in a way that teachers have a good visual on what's going on around them during a lab session. When it comes time to lecture, students can access the interior of the classroom so notes can be taken away from the benches where spills or accidents may occur. Stainless steel countertops and a dishwasher have been added for easy cleanup. Fittler says the estimated cost of the upgrade is $40,000.

     With the renovation of the science lab, he would be able to take his science program to the next level of higher learning added Fittler.

     "The environment I have created includes lots of hands on activities, especially for students that may struggle with the academic part," said Fittler. "Other high schools tend to stray away from a lot of hands on labs because of liability reasons…fire, smoke and working with chemicals. Twenty-five to 30 per cent of my classes involve hands on learning. This will help me to go down different avenues that I couldn't before…give me some more versatility."

UMEI Principal Sonya Bedal is thrilled with the newly updated class room and adds that they couldn't have done it without the generous donations of money and time spent by numerous volunteers to get the job done.

     "We are able to provide the updates as a small independent school because of gracious donations from our community supporters." said Bedal.

     "The learning they'll be able to continue…modern, updated, contemporary all of those things. I think it's very important to keep our students in the loop, so they feel they're getting the same or a better education as the public system."

Fittler echoes Bedal's sentiment saying that without the help of many individuals the project simply would not have taken place.  To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.