Lena Shaw Elementary celebrates opening of Cmolik Foundation Innovation Lab
A new interactive, advanced innovation lab at Lena Shaw Elementary is preparing students for the future, thanks to a generous donation from Russ Cmolik, the Cmolik Foundation and the Ocean Park Foundation.
Last Tuesday (Jan. 27), Surrey Schools celebrated the opening of the Cmolik Foundation Innovation Lab, made possible through a $1-million commitment to the district with funds earmarked specifically for the lab. Through creative, hands-on learning opportunities, students of all ages can engage in learning about robotics, design tools, coding and more, encouraging creativity and collaboration while instilling problem-solving skills.
The Cmolik Foundation Innovation Lab at Lena Shaw Elementary provides students with engaging, hands-on opportunities to learn about robotics, coding, 3D printing and other technological advancements to prepare them for the future. (Photo by Chris Poon)
“Lena Shaw students now have access to cutting edge technologies that empower them to innovate, create and develop the skills that they will need for their futures,” said Gary Tymoschuk, Chair of the Surrey Board of Education. “This lab ignites curiosity, opens doors and helps students imagine what is possible.”
Located in the heart of the school, the lab is designed to be an inclusive and welcoming learning environment that fosters a sense of belonging in students, enabling them to see themselves as capable and creative innovators. Using curriculum-aligned projects developed by a dedicated facilitator, students will have opportunities to work both independently and collaboratively, explore real-world challenges, design solutions and share their learning in and out of the classroom.
Tymoschuk and Supt. Mark Pearmain thanked Russ Cmolik and his team for their ongoing dedication to Surrey and White Rock students since the foundation began 18 years ago. Over more than 10 years, the Cmolik Foundation has provided more than $2.5 million in student scholarships and field trip experiences to youth who have experienced adversity to support their graduate and post-graduate education.
The foundation’s relationship with Lena Shaw Elementary dates back to 2008. Over the years, the foundation has taken students on a field trip of a lifetime, as well as invited students to participate in aviation career programs and STEM summer camps through the Cmolik Foundation’s Expanding Horizons program.
“The Cmolik Foundation has been a long-standing supporter of the Lena Shaw school community, helping to meet the needs of a diverse, dynamic and growing population of learners,” said Pearmain, emphasizing the importance of their latest investment in preparing students for rapid changes with artificial intelligence and other technological advancements.
“The innovation lab is a place where students can explore, build confidence and discover new passions.”
A diverse and committed group of community partners are making other life-changing investments in Surrey and White Rock students, helping to provide food programs, playgrounds, student supplies and technology.
Tymoschuk called the Cmolik Foundation Innovation Lab an investment that will serve students for generations to come and extended an invitation to anyone who would like to make lasting change by supporting Surrey and White Rock students through similar partnerships.
“Surrey is home to more than 130 schools, each filled with bright, capable students who benefit deeply from strong community partnerships,” said Tymoschuk. “If you believe in creating joyful, inclusive spaces where young people can discover who they are and what they can become, we would love to connect with you.
“Help us build learning environments where every student feels seen, supported and empowered to dream big.”
If you are an individual, company, corporation, business or foundation interested in supporting Surrey and White Rock students, reach out to the district’s Advancement Office by emailing advancement@surreyschools.ca or calling 604-595-6066
