Binghamton, NY (WBNG Binghamton) Four science labs in one school will see a quarter of a million dollar facelift. Broome County's Catholic high school says this is an important investment, and it receives two substantial pledges at the start of Catholic Schools Week.
Catholic Schools week begins with an examination of the conscience and, in this case, the physical plant.
The science labs at Seton Catholic are out of balance with what is expected of students these days.
"Science, math, and technology are really the cornerstones of education for students in the twenty-first century," said principal Richard Bucci.
To keep its students competitive, the school is embarking on a capital campaign to refurbish or replace its old labs.
"Right now, our science labs are lacking," said student Kayla Moran. "Especially with the seventh and eighth grade here now, we're going to need new equipment."
The goal is to raise $225,000. The Mirabito Fuel Group and the McDevitt Trust Fund have half of it covered.
"We need more science and math programs in this country," said McDevitt Investment Committee chairman Dick Cole. "We're losing jobs because we don't have the kids here who are focused on science and math."
By the time the new labs are complete, some of the students will have already graduated. But, they're thankful that students generations ahead of them will take advantage of up-to-date technology.
"As we're a Catholic school, we might not always have the best equipment for everything," said student David Hart. "With this donation, we'll be able to advance our technology by a lot."
Seton is funded by parish collections and tuition. It is hoping families can contribute the remaining money needed.
Work should begin on the labs in July.
Donations to the capital campaign may be made to the Catholic Education Foundation of the Southern Tier at 70 Seminary Avenue in Binghamton, 13905.
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