Nano lab at Wheeling H.S. opens opportunities

In a laboratory on the second floor of Wheeling High School, students can see objects magnified at the nano level. They also can see their futures. The lab, built with help from grants and partnerships, is the first of its kind in a U.S. public high school. It has state-of-the-art instruments like those found in some of the country's top higher education research institutions, and is incorporated into numerous classes - from biology and chemistry to art - while also serving a resource for business partners.

Part of the school's career pathway opportunities, the nano lab gives students hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields with job opportunities. The lab opened in fall 2013 with a visit from U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, who lauded the project as one that should be replicated nationally. Duncan joined Wheeling students and staff in a discussion of the importance of STEM education amid a national push to increase the number of students proficient in math and science.

• 214@100 is a celebration of District 214's centennial; 100 people, places, things and events that have shaped its unique history. To contribute ideas, email us at district 214@dailyherald.com.