1996: Technology Advanced Science Laborartory (TASL) at the Middle School

Excerpt from Fall 1996 Poland Schools Foundation Newsletter...

The current science room at the Middle School is much as it was when completed in 1937-1938 for use by High School students. The Foundation has undertaken the project of remodeling this classroom and providing a state-of-the-art facility.

This project, known as T.A.S.L., or Technologically Advanced Science Lab, will open this fall to Poland Middle School students. The work has been completed in conjunction with the extensive renovation of the Middle School by the Board of Education.

Work on the room included a new ceiling, lighting, raised floor, base and wall cabinets, and chalk boards. The new science room is handicapped accessible.

New work stations and equipment will be supplemented with the latest in technology that would include computer equipment with CD-ROM capabilities and enhancements which will provide the most up-to-date learning environment. A Foundation Committee, headed by Mr. Thomas J. Cavalier and Gloria Cochran Ph.D., has worked with teachers to develop this facility.

Total cost of the project was $100,000 with the Board of Education funding 50%. The Foundation presented a check for $30,500 to cover the remodeling phase in August to the Board of Education. Purchase and installation of computer equipment will complete this project.

Excerpt from 1997 Poland Schools Foundation Newsletter...

March 3, 1997, was indeed a banner day for the Poland Schools Foundation. TASL, the Technologically Advanced Science Laboratory at the Middle School, was dedicated. Present were Foundation Trustees, School Board Members, Superintendent Dr. Robert Zorn, Middle School Principal Dr. David Bair, science teachers, students, members of the community, and members of the press and local television stations. The students presented the work in the lab. Mr. Tom Ventresco, county computer consultant, demostrated the application of computers in the science lab. Mrs. Cris Algaier, Past President and President-Elect of the Middle School PTA, presented an award to Mr. Tom Shook, retired Middle School Principal, on behalf of the PTA and the Foundation in recognition of his support of the project and the PTA funds given in his name toward the project.

The culmination fo the TASL project was especially meaningful in that it is a $100,000 joint project of the Poland Schools Foundation and the Poland Board of Education that took years of steadfast work by many, including Foundation Major Projects Chairman, Mr. Tom Cavalier, and Past President of the Foundation, Mr. Bill Colyer. The community supports for this project through donations, medallion sales, membership to the Foundation, and Annual Banquet attendance was tremendous - Poland can by proud of its support of its young people! The completion of this project clearly shows what can be done in a community dedicated to educational excellence!

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