Woburn Public Schools Recognizes Work of Science Department Faculty

WOBURN – Superintendent Matthew Crowley wishes to recognize the Woburn Public Schools Science Department faculty and their work to grow the science program over the last several years. 

Thanks to the efforts of Kimberly Gustenhoven, science department curriculum coordinator, and her team, the science department has received more than $1 million in grant funding over the past three years.

These grants have helped to enhance key programs including Innovation Pathways in Biotechnology and Advanced Manufacturing at Woburn Memorial High School. High-Quality College and Career Pathways Pathways are designed to provide students with coursework and experience in specific high-demand industries as part of an initiative by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

“Our Science Department faculty have done amazing things for our students and for our entire science department. Our science program has grown tremendously over the past several years and our students are taking part in projects that high school students normally would not have access to,” Superintendent Crowley said. “I commend the many dedicated members of the Woburn Science Department for finding unique ways to cultivate a joy for science and learning in our students.”

This year, due to the funding, the Biotechnology Pathway is being expanded to give students the opportunity to study and grow animal cells. The school is converting an unused room into a biotech laboratory, which will be fitted with new equipment including bio-safety cabinets, a CO2 incubator and an ultra-deep freezer.

For the Advanced Manufacturing Pathway, the high school is converting the current woodshop into one that replicates a true manufacturing environment. The space will include augmented reality welding equipment and mock manufacturing equipment that simulates the manufacturing process and culminates in a 3-D printed product.

Students in the pathways take Project Lead the Way courses, which gives students a chance to earn college credit. Students who complete a pathway can earn up to nine credits through their coursework.

Another innovative Science Department initiative includes a project in which the AP Environmental Science students partner with students in Bologna, Italy, to study ecological footprints. Additionally, students participate in PBLWorks project-based learning initiatives that allow them to present the results of their projects to science professionals.

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