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Rising to the Challenge

Written by Ann Sullivan

The learners at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School (OLPH) in Chattanooga, TN started the new school year with a brand new SmartLab HQ.

Two students in school uniforms work together at a desk in a library or media center.

OLPH’s mission is to enable students to become confident, lifelong learners, and with SmartLab Learning’s unique project-based STEM learning environments, they’re well on the way to reaching their mission.

In a SmartLab HQ, learners are engaged in hands-on, experiential learning where they work in teams to solve problems that include circuitry, software engineering, robotics, and other projects.

Because students can explore topics of personal interest, they can rise to the challenge.

Teresa Hale, SmartLab Facilitator

“It’s a challenging learning experience,” explains SmartLab Facilitator Teresa Hale, “but because students can explore topics of personal interest, they can rise to the challenge.”

“In addition to working with leading-edge technology, students in the SmartLab HQ develop critical skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, project management, and communications,” explains Principal Dr. Caroline Carlin.

An instructor demonstrates drone technology to two students at a round table in a classroom.

The new SmartLab at OLPH is the first in the Chattanooga area. Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church Pastor, Father Arthur Torres, added: “I know our students will be excited by the new SmartLab. Our community should certainly be proud of this new learning resource.”

Modern classroom with "smartlab" branding, round tables with learning materials, computer stations.

Again, congratulations to all of you at OLPH. We are confident that the SmartLab HQ will be another environment where your students are empowered to reach their personal potential and instill a passion for lifelong learning.

Before and after comparison of a school library renovation, showing the original space with wooden.
Transforming the library into a collaborative learning space.

Read more about the ribbon-cutting event.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Schools logo with cross and motto "Know Love Serve.
AnnSullivan
Ann Sullivan

Ann Sullivan is the Creative Director at SmartLab, leading brand strategy and creative development to expand SmartLab’s presence in schools across America. A former art educator in the Greater New York City area, she brings a deep understanding of student-centered learning and the power of creativity to strengthen learning outcomes. At SmartLab, she shapes the company’s voice, visual identity, and storytelling, helping communicate SmartLab’s impact in preparing students for the future.

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