FOR BREAKING NEWS VISIT www.couriersun.com november 27, 2014 • KIDS & EDUCATION • The Courier sun 13 ST. FRANCIS PREPARATORY SCHOOL TO UNVEIL STATE-OF-THE-ART SCIENCE LABS Classes began at St. Francis Preparatory School on Friday, September 5th. One major difference between this year and years past are that the school’s Science Labs have been totally renovated to a level that rivals colleges and even professional laboratories. In fact, Prep’s Chairperson of Science, Kimberly Istrico indicated that these facilities far surpass any collegiate lab she has encountered. This current renovation is the next in a long line of upgrades aimed at ensuring St. Francis Prep provides the best possible environs, let alone all-around education, for its students. Previously, the school has fully updated its infrastructure. Next came Prep’s Physical Education/Athletic Center and Visual Arts Education wing, along with an expanded student cafeteria. Next on tap, a second-to-none facility for Prep’s internationally recognized Music program. These new labs replace those that Prep had inherited when they became the current residents of what was originally Bishop Reilly High School in 1974, a full forty years ago. The new facilities, which feature a lab for each of the Science Department’s sub-disciplines – Advanced Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics – include ample One of the new Science Labs at St. Francis Prep storage and diligently integrated safety features. They are all aesthetically distinctive, and were designed by Prep alum, Ed Slampiak, ’90. When asked about what it was like to design and build for his alma mater, Mr. Slampiak noted the positive impact SFP had on his formative years as a high school student and the role Prep played in making him the successful entrepreneur he is today. The design/build was one way he was able to give back to his alma mater and Mr. Slampiak hopes that other alumni will follow his lead and get involved with The Prep. Mr. Slampiak’s vision was executed by project manager Richard Mednick. Prep’s Director of Science Research, James Boylan spoke glowingly about Slampiak, who took the time and care to interview each and every member of the Science faculty to ensure no stone was left unturned when it came to the design components. Upon fi rst visiting the fi nished product, Boylan exclaimed that no words could describe what he saw, and that the result was far beyond what were already high expectations. Some notable features of the labs include: • Full room automation and wireless connectivity • iPad integration and control • Industrial quality and design casework • LED lighting, interactive projectors and smart boards • Video conferencing and remote teaching capabilities St. Francis Prep boasts a nationally recognized Science program, punctuated by a consistent run of Intel Science Talent Search Semifi nalists. The program, in addition to core subjects, also offers a full spectrum of unique electives, such as Biotechnology, Astronomy, and Forensic Science. In addition to current Prep students, middle-schoolers who are part of Prep’s Spring and Summer Academies, as well as Prep’s partner schools will be able to utilize the labs and fl ourish academically. For more information, please contact Prep’s Science Chairperson, Kimberly Istrico at (718) 423-8810, x231, or Principal, Patrick McLaughlin, x210. St. Mary Gate of Heaven School We Proudly Offer: • Core Curriculum of Religion, Reading, Math, English Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, Physical Education, and Art/Art Appreciation • A dedicated and experienced Faculty • Math 9– Integrated Algebra Regents Class • Foreign Language Program– Gr. 6,7,8 • Enrichment Reading Program • Title I Guidance and Instruction in Reading and Math • SMART Boards • Early Morning Drop-off and After-school Programs • Paul Effman Studios offers Band Instruction for Grades 3-8 • Dancing Classrooms– Grade 8 • Children’s Choir • School Newsletter NOW ACCEPTING NEW STUDENT REGISTRATIONS Grades K-6 104-06 101st Avenue, Ozone Park, NY 11416 • 718 846-0689 • www.smgh.org
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