UPPER ST. CLAIR, Pa. — From the outside of Upper Saint Clair High School, the building may look the same, but once you walk through the doors, there are several brand new and innovative spaces that educators said will enhance the learning experience for students this school year.
Channel 11 took a tour to see what each area has to offer.
The library now has more collaborative spaces, including cabanas and group tables, as well as new-and-improved book storage.
“Nothing is done without a purpose, and I think that’s what’s so unique about the way we do our spaces here. We’ve been talking about spaces for years, we’ve had this as a strategic initiative within the district,” said Dr. Amy Pfender, USC deputy superintendent.
Not far from the library – two new robotics rooms. A dedicated shop space includes a laser CNC machine and other state-of-the-art equipment. Administrators saw a need for a new robotics center, as interest in both the robotics club and classes has skyrocketed.
“About six years ago, our robotics club was two students and me in a classroom tinkering around with little Lego robots. Today, we have over 400 students,” said Tracy Smith, USC robotics teacher & coordinator.
Near the gymnasium, you’ll find Apartment 404A, a studio and independent living suite for students with special needs to learn crucial life skills. The room was previously used as a locker room, then converted to a teacher supply closet, but now, special education teachers can reserve the renovated apartment and help their students prepare for life after graduation.
“The point of having the powder room and a toilet – to make sure kids know how to clean a bathroom,” said Rachel Andler Plovic, USC director of special education. “How do I make a bed? How do I prepare for somebody coming to visit? The fitted sheet – everyone needs to know how to fold a fitted sheet.”
There is also a new communications classroom where students can learn more about podcasting and social media.
“I think it’s a really exciting time for students, just having all of these new spaces,” said Cara Senger, USC High School principal. “[They] come from a lot of discussions from our staff about what students could use, what they could need, and what could be a really good experience for them.”
Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.
Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW