On Nov. 6, 2015, technology and equipment were replaced and updated in the Biotechnology Institute (BTI) at Carlmont High School using a $20,000 grant given by Oracle.
Oracle, whose headquarters are in Redwood City, is a multinational computer technology corporation. Oracle gave this grant to Carlmont in order to provide a more technological learning environment, accessed through computers with the latest in hardware and software options. It is available across all academic courses with an emphasis on science.
“There are [materials] that can be made better or replaced because so many students do labs every year,” said Felix Guzman, a science teacher.
Teachers such as Guzman prepare students for lab experiments in the classroom, but reliable technology provides a tool that makes learning easier and more successful.
The labs and experiments performed during the school year take a toll on the technology used, so new equipment is beneficial to ensure the success of all students in their classes.
The money from the grant specified new lab equipment for two classrooms, investments in the math competitions, new software for AP Computer Science classes, and the foundation of improved technology for the BTI program.
Labs are a significant portion of the students’ involvement in biotechnology throughout their high school careers, and an up-to-date technological environment increases the learning capabilities of each student. This prepares them for labs and success outside of high school.
“[BTI] helps me because I want to go into a medical field when I go to college,” said Chad Westmoreland, a sophomore, and participant in the BTI program.
The new equipment aids in the student’s education about topics such as genetics, biological processes to improve lives of organisms, medical advancements, and more.
“The $20,000 grant will help the BTI program because there are people who have a specific interest in science and want to contribute to science,” said Ben Pasion, a sophomore.
More students now have the capability to change the world for the better thanks to the donation given to the Carlmont Academic Foundation by Oracle.
