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Plans are moving forward for a computer science lab school in Chesapeake Public Schools.
Old Dominion University and the Chesapeake School District received a planning grant from the state for the project and have been planning to build the lab at Oscar Smith Middle School since last year. This month, they submitted a second grant proposal for implementation. The grant seeks $1 million in the first year and a total of $5 million over four years. Officials expect to receive word of approval in late spring or early summer.
In 2022, the General Assembly allocated $100 million to Lab Schools, public schools that test innovative models. Lab schools are usually affiliated with universities.
Shonda Windham, director of college and career readiness at Chesapeake University, said the “school-within-a-school” model will serve about 100 sixth-graders in the first year (2025-26) and 300 in the third grade. He said he plans to expand the program to include students from around the world.
The lab will incorporate computer science elements into all major subject areas and new electives. ODU provides professional development and guidance to teachers who are innovating their curriculum.
Applicants should apply by the spring of their 5th year. The laboratory accepts students by lottery.
ODU officials have previously said one of the lab’s goals is to bring more underrepresented students into the “tech talent pipeline.” Oscar Smith Middle School is a high-needs school. Windham said 97% of students are eligible for free or reduced lunch and 85% are minorities.
The planning team visited multiple laboratories over the past year and observed their operational status.
The school also received another $150,000 grant that will enable the construction of a career-focused laboratory to provide students with equipment used in multiple industries, including maritime, welding, and health sciences. I also secured the money. The new lab, which opens next year, is expected to enhance the Lab School experience and be used by other Oscar Smith students as well.
Windham said the team found that the effort required integrating too many components into one school, so the research team turned the lab school into an International Baccalaureate (IB) mid-year program in computer science. He says he has changed his original plan. The school will promote a learning approach called “design thinking,” which involves identifying problems and solutions and continually refining ideas.
Noor Habib, nour.habib@virginiamedia.com
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