Cheshire, CT-  Science instruction for elementary school students in Cheshire is getting a boost thanks to private funding from the Cheshire Education Foundation. 

A dedicated Science Center with the feel of a laboratory has been outfitted at Chapman School with funds provided by the Cheshire Education Foundation in which the teachers and administration of the Cheshire Public Schools.  Chapman students in grades 4-6 began using their new science room with the opening of school this fall.

“This new dedicated space for science will enhance the existing science curriculum, creating a personal connection for our children with science, and providing opportunities for student and teacher collaboration,” said John Capone, Chairman of the Cheshire Education Foundation.

The Foundation’s goal with this “Science is Elementary: initiative is to elevate the profile of science education in Cheshire and make the science program here a leader within the State of Connecticut. 

The Chapman Science Center will establish a model for Cheshire’s other three elementary schools.  The Cheshire Education Foundation is beginning a fundraising campaign to establish similar facilities at Highland, Doolittle and Norton Schools.  These will be rolled out based upon space availability at each school.

“A permanent home for science in our elementary schools will allow teachers and students to perform experiment and apply the scientific method without having to set up and tear down equipment in their individual 4th, 5th, 6th grade classrooms,” explained Dr. Greg Florio, Cheshire’s Superintendent of Schools.  “We’re hoping to inspire wonder, curiosity, and analytical thinking at the primary school level,” he added.