Beecher High School Unveils New STEAM SmartLab to Empower Students Through Innovation and Hands-On Learning
State-of-the-art SmartLab fosters creativity, career readiness, and real-world STEM experiences for Beecher students
Beecher High School officially opened its new STEAM SmartLab with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that brought together students, educators, and community leaders to celebrate a transformative step toward hands-on, project-based learning.
Developed in partnership with SmartLab, the new SmartLab provides Beecher students with a dynamic environment to explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) through real-world problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration. The initiative reflects Beecher Community School District’s ongoing commitment to fostering equitable access to innovative learning experiences that prepare students for success in college, careers, and beyond.
For educators, this innovative lab moves beyond traditional curriculum, embracing hands-on, project-based learning that inspires creativity and critical thinking.
— Dr. Jendayi Gardner, Superintendent Beecher Community School Distric
A Vital tool for Empowerment and Exposure
Superintendent Dr. Jendayi Gardner described the SmartLab as more than a modern learning space, calling it a vital tool for empowerment and exposure. “The STEAM SmartLab is a transformative space where Beecher students become independent thinkers, empowered through exposure to diverse careers in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics,” said Dr. Gardner. “For educators, this innovative lab moves beyond traditional curriculum, embracing hands-on, project-based learning that inspires creativity and critical thinking.”
Inside the SmartLab, students engage with robotics, digital media, circuitry, and design software—collaborating on authentic projects that build technical proficiency, confidence, and curiosity. The experience underscores Beecher’s commitment to connecting learning with life beyond the classroom.
“At Beecher High School, the STEAM SmartLab is more than just a classroom; it’s a place of exposure, creativity, and innovation that empowers students to explore, experiment, and excel in the fields of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics,” said Lance E. Sumpter, Ed.S, Beecher High School Principal and Beecher alumnus (Class of ’96). “It provides hands-on learning experiences that open pathways to careers, entrepreneurship ideas, and beyond.”
This SmartLab represents our commitment to excellence and equity. It’s a space where Beecher students will dream big, build boldly, and prepare to lead in a world driven by innovation,”
— Marvin Smoot, Beecher Community School District Board President.
For students like Aniyah Ide, the experience has already sparked excitement and confidence. “It was exciting and different! I’ve never used technology like this before,” said Ide, a Beecher High School student. “I felt like a real engineer working on my project. I can’t wait to come back and try something new!”
Dr. Jennifer Berry, CEO of SmartLab, emphasized the deeper mission behind the initiative. “When students step into a SmartLab, they’re not just learning skills, they’re learning to see themselves as problem-solvers and innovators,” said Dr. Berry. “Beecher’s SmartLab is a shining example of how equitable access to hands-on learning can ignite confidence and open doors to opportunity.”
When students step into a SmartLab, they’re not just learning skills, they’re learning to see themselves as problem-solvers and innovators. Beecher’s SmartLab is a shining example of how equitable access to hands-on learning can ignite confidence and open doors to opportunity.
— Dr. Jennifer Berry, CEO of SmartLab
The Beecher SmartLab launch has already captured attention across Michigan as a model for student-centered, technology-rich learning. The initiative reflects the district’s vision to bring advanced STEAM education to every student in Beecher, ensuring access, equity, and exposure to emerging career pathways.
Local media outlets have featured the new lab and its impact on students and the community:
• ABC12 News: Beecher High School Debuts New STEAM SmartLab
• Michigan Alliance for Innovation in Education: Beecher Schools Launches STEAM SmartLab
• MLive: New STEAM Lab Gives Beecher Students Hands-On Experience with Emerging Tech
About Beecher Community School District
Beecher Community School District is committed to providing a high-quality education that prepares every student for success in college, career, and life. Serving the Beecher community in Genesee County, Michigan, the district fosters a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment that values academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement. Through innovative instruction, dedicated educators, and strong partnerships, Beecher Community School District empowers students to reach their full potential and become lifelong learners who positively impact their world.
About SmartLab
SmartLab designs and implements innovative, project-based learning environments that engage students in STEM, STEAM, and career readiness. Through hands-on experiences, SmartLabs empower students to explore, create, and solve real-world challenges—developing critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills for success in the 21st century. SmartLab partners with districts across the nation to promote equitable access to transformative learning experiences.
Bill Laurienti
SmartLab
+1 800-458-2880
Public.Relations@CreativeLearningSystems.com
