Science is the lens through which I see my world.

—CORINNE, CLASS OF 2010

A career in science is difficult, requires a lot of work, and is a challenging and competitive road.

—JENNIFER, CLASS OF 1997

Bioengineer & current Patent Law Student

Proposed Science Center Woodlands Academyof the Sacred Heart

I know that my background in science at Woodlands will help me in college and later in my professional life.

—ANNE, CLASS OF 2011

Today, all Woodlands students are required to take three years of laboratory science, and over 74% of students at Woodlands take four or more years.

Science education has changed dramatically since 1961 when our present campus opened.

Opportunity is the greatest gift a young mind can receive. More students today are seeking careers in the science, engineering, technology, and health care fields. Young women now enroll in science education at the same rate as young men, and according to the National Science Foundation, enrollment of women in graduate science and engineering programs has increased in each of the past 20 years. Improved facilities at Woodlands will help ensure that this trend continues for the next 20 years and beyond.

There is not enough space in our existing classrooms to conduct experiments, nor enough secure space for ongoing experiments that span multiple class periods/days. Labs lack ample space to conduct group work, which limits idea generation and our ability to collaborate and learn from one another. Group work is an essential skill for work in any field, and particularly a career in science. We are not as prepared as we need to be for college and beyond. —CORINNE, CLASS OF 2010

Students here have an amazing desire to learn, and we have so many students here that want to pursue a career in science. If our labs were more up-to-date and were structured for today’s challenges, we would be better prepared for the challenges we’ll face tomorrow. —PHOEBE, CLASS OF 2010

I love the challenges and discoveries of science. But, our labs are organized in a way that restricts interaction with our instructor and other students. As society evolves with technology, we as students need to keep up with the rapid pace in order to compete and be successful. —INGRID, CLASS OF 2012

The proposed science cenTer aT woodlands academy

The quality of Woodlands’ science offerings is a critical factor in maintaining the

school’s status as an outstanding independent school. We must improve our science

infrastructure to prepare our students to excel in their university experiences and, for

some, in their careers in the sciences. Woodlands is committed to the construction

of a new Science Center to replace facilities that are increasingly inadequate in meet-

ing the educational needs of our students.

The new Science Center will provide for innovative course offerings and hands-on

learning opportunities that will entice students to enroll in science classes as

freshmen and inspire them to continue science education throughout their high

school years.

The construction of a new Science Center allows Woodlands to renovate existing

space to make room for much-needed classrooms and offices that will support

program growth and enhance student experiences.

Excellent science programs require uniquely adaptable learning spaces and

laboratories, technology to access global information, modern science equipment

and materials, and space for student conferences and reflection. The new Science

Center will provide a state-of-the-art facility designed to meet these needs and

National Science Education standards.

Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart continues to be recognized as one of

the finest high schools in the region by providing young women with an exceptional

education that also cultivates strong values and deep faith. It is critical for today’s

young women to have the educational opportunities Woodlands provides. Additional

classroom space and the ongoing growth of our endowment assists us in attracting

and educating a new generation of bright and talented young women. A new

Science Center prepares our students for college studies and successful careers.

Your donation is vital to the future of our school.

Corinne’s StoryFrom the time I was little, I always wanted to know

how things worked. I even invented my own

machines, once trying to create a grocery store

conveyor belt made from gift-wrapping rolls to

work in my child-sized grocery store.

When I began Physics freshman year, I suddenly

saw Physics all around me, such as potential and

kinetic energy in two different field hockey passes.

I actually enjoyed studying for my AP Biology exam. It was fun to see aspects of my life

I took for granted explained. I guess you could say science is the lens through which I

see my world.

I have been an inventor since childhood. I have always been fascinated by how things

work. I readily disassemble and reassemble items. I recognize science in my everyday life—

I can see why I should set the field hockey ball off my left foot instead of my right when

trying to hit it far (I see the hockey stick as the pendulum, as it will have more kinetic

energy the closer it is to the center of my swing. Therefore, it transfers the most kinetic

energy to the ball).

I am interested in a career which involves problem solving. I intend to major in an area

of Engineering with a possible minor in Biology and Ecology. I imagine graduate work as

well, and certainly my career will be in the field of science.

The Science Center is critical to continue the tradition of educational excellence at Woodlands Academy.

science cenTer campaign

Science Center Construction $2,100,000

Equipment 400,000

Site Work Contingency 200,000

Existing Space Renovation and Endowment 800,000

$3,500,000

760 East Westleigh Road

Lake Forest, Illinois 60045

p 847.234.4300

f 847.234.4348

woodlandsacademy.org

The science cenTer will provide:

> Laboratory/classrooms for biology, chemistry, and physics in a new

9,867 square foot structure.

> A multi-purpose design, complete with a laboratory and lecture space.

> Larger rooms for faculty to conduct long-term student projects

and incorporate state-of-the-art technology into daily lesson plans.

> Five student conference rooms for group projects & study.

> Sufficient faculty preparation areas and separate storage facilities,

allowing teachers to work more efficiently while providing a safe

environment for students.