Gear Up grant funds renovation as well as career exploration projects
Jan. 3, 2024 / Students at Bonanza Junior/Senior High School came back from the holiday break to a new state-of-the-art science lab. Seven new lab stations and two teacher stations were installed using $40,000 from a Gear Up Grant the school was awarded last spring. The old stations were from the 1970s and were in bad shape.
“Our students now have a new lab to pursue science and careers in science,” said Jordan Osborn, principal of Bonanza Junior/Senior High School. “This is part of our ongoing quest for this school to be better,” Osborn said "We can’t provide inferior quality facilities and expect excellence.”
The $560,000 Gear Up grant, which provides $80,000 a year for the next seven years, also is funding a learning facilitator at Bonanza, who offers college and career readiness programs, including exploratory classes, career days and college trips for students, including travel costs, lodging, and food. This year, students so far have visited University of Oregon and Oregon State University.
The science lab renovation is just one example of ongoing efforts to better the school facility for students. In the past three years, the school, using grants, private donations, and district funding, renovated its culinary arts classroom, installing new countertops, stainless steel sinks, and industry standard ovens and ranges. Other projects included remodeling the locker rooms and weight room, creating a CTE Showcase and a student store, and installing an inspirational mural. The school also has upgraded its football scoreboard, softball scoreboard, and baseball fence.
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