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SmartLab Named a Colorado Company to Watch!

Written by Ann Sullivan

[Longmont CO, June 21, 2024] – Creative Learning Systems® is proud to announce that it has been named a “Colorado Company to Watch” by ColoradoBiz, “the authoritative voice of business” in Colorado. ColoradoBiz has recognized SmartLab’s commitment to promoting high-quality learning experiences that empower students and prepare them for public life and the careers of tomorrow.

Creative Learning Systems has installed SmartLab learning environments in nearly every state in the US, with over 100 labs in Colorado schools to date.

students building a model in SmartLab

SmartLabs are immersive STEM learning environments implemented in K-12 classrooms using student-led exploration and project-based learning. SmartLab educators use the LearningHub platform to guide students as they tackle real-world challenges and foster critical thinking skills. Each project in the SmartLab curriculum provides students with a necessary problem, background information, assessment tools, and collaboration features. Additionally, educators benefit from curriculum planning resources that align projects with educational goals and enhance core math and science curricula.

According to  Denise Basler, VP of Human Resources at Creative Learning Systems, “The anticipated growth of STEM jobs over the next 20 years is a big influence on how institutions will invest in education,” and “Declining public school enrollment and increased private school competition means institutions need to have more program differentiations within the school or district to drive attendance.”

SmartLabs are built to maximize engagement. Desks are spread across the room with pair and group stations to facilitate collaboration. Teachers do not lecture or stand at the front of the classroom and present to students. Instead, teacher-facilitators travel around the room to ensure students are partnering well and pushing themselves beyond their comfort zones.

“At the core of everything we do is our unwavering commitment to our customers: the students and educators we serve,” Basler said. “We listen to their feedback, anticipate their needs and go above and beyond to deliver exceptional STEM and PBL [problem-based learning] experiences. Our customer-centric approach guides every decision we make, ensuring that we always put their needs first.”

The SmartLab team is proud to be among ColoradoBiz’s Companies to Watch this year—and proud to be a member of both the Colorado business and education communities.

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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