Laguna Blanca School will celebrate the completion of its state-of-the-art Center for Science and Innovation as part of its $8.5 million comprehensive campaign Building on Strength: The Campaign for Laguna’s Future.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held 3-5 p.m. Monday, Sept. 27 at the school’s Hope Ranch campus. Community partners will have an opportunity to tour the new facilities, hear from school and campaign leaders, faculty and students.
After support from key benefactors including a $1 million lead gift from the Elaine F. Stepanek Foundation, Laguna Blanca publicly opened the campaign in March 2020 along with construction of the new center.
Building upon the success of its established STEM courses and the Science Research Program, the Center for Science and Innovation features 5,500 square feet of modern, dedicated space engineered to empower students to innovate and experiment in their area of passion.
“It is an honor to join this exceptional community of students, faculty, families, and alumni,” said new Head of School Ron Cino. “This is a pivotal moment in Laguna Blanca’s history, and the leadership and support of our school have positioned us to continue on a path of excellence and growth.”
Science Department Chair Staci Richard said the new facilities better support Laguna Blanca’s students to push the boundaries of discovery in science.
The new Gainey Biology Lab and new chemistry lab allow students to ask and investigate more complex questions about the world at the molecular, microscopic and macroscopic levels through new technology, including additional fume hoods, biotechnology equipment, and a controlled growth chamber.
The Nakamura STEM Research & Innovation Lab creates opportunities for hands-on design through 3D printing, fabrication tools, and circuit design, as well as the digital creation of augmented reality, virtual reality, and 3D CAD content.
The lab space also allows other disciplines to enhance their studies. For instance, students studying Latin can integrate science when fabricating their Roman villa projects. Cross-divisional partnerships will also be supported by the space, allowing high school students to collaborate with elementary-age students on special projects.
The updated Jackson Physics Lab provides students more space to conduct project-based learning activities while utilizing new PASCO Scientific Stations for collecting experimental data.
The Mosher Foundation Outdoor Classroom and Hagerman Environmental Research Space complete the center, validating our commitment to environmental stewardship and offering students authentic learning experiences in marine biology and environmental science.
As the school’s largest fundraising effort to date, the Building on Strength Campaign represents the past, present, and future of Laguna Blanca School. With the support of 137 donors across Laguna’s current and alumni family community, Laguna grew its endowment by over $2 million, in addition to establishing the Center for Science and Innovation.
“This investment helps ensure that Laguna Blanca School has a stainable future for its students, faculty and facilities,” said Elisabeth Fowler, campaign co-chair.
For more information about the project and celebration, contact Tara Broucqsault, director of communications, 805-687-2461 ext. 0209 or tbrouc@lagunablanca.org.
For more about Laguna Blanca, visit www.lagunablanca.org or call 805-687-2461.