The Porter Ranch Neighborhood Council was on hand for the Grand Opening of the Science Lab at Castlebay Lane Charter Elementary on September 28. The science lab idea was developed and brought to life by teachers Sandy Dorfman and Donna Blakenship along with a host of other teachers who were inspired by Principal Victoria Littlejohn’s challenge, “You don’t have to be sick to get better.” Parents responded to the lab idea with $26,000 in donations, through a variety of fundraisers including a Move for Science walkathon last year. School funds of $20,000 were added to prepare the lab.
An existing classroom was converted into the new lab, with state of the art microscopes that were a gift from USC, arranged by parent, Ali Ghasemi, lab tables, stools, demonstration table, equipment and mural. The word mural might conjure up a vision of a large picture painted on the wall in the lab. But in fact, the mural re-imagines an ordinary classroom into a venue of exploration, covering the walls, floor to ceiling, with beautiful images of the scientific standards students will learn.
The Grand Opening and Dedication began with muralist, Lynda Eledge, presenting the school with symbols from the table of elements spelling out the word Th90In49K19. Science teacher, Erica Angelo spoke about the possibility of a future Madam Curie emanating from this lab.
PRNC Past President and Current Treasurer Becky Leveque was on hand speaking of how her children attended Castlebay and the support the PRNC has shown over the years for the growth of Castlebay’s students. She was joined by PRNC Vice President Dick Rippey and Board Member Sue Hammarlund, veteran LAUSD educators.
The Science Lab was dedicated to the memory of Bette Fries-Fernandes, a first grade teacher who loved to hatch chicks in her classroom ignited her students with passion for science. With her photograph above the door, the dedication reads, "To Bette Fries-Fernandes who inspired her students to discover." Her husband and children spoke of her devotion to her students and how she cherished each card students gave her.
Finally, as a surprise to Mrs. Dorfman, a student honored her teacher’s vision in developing the lab. In fact, the student had wanted to honor her teacher a year ago, when the lab was still just a glimmer in Mrs. Dorman’s eye.
The grand opening was combined with a celebration of the 30th anniversary and showing of the movie ET. Families had their picture taken with ET, ate dinner and enjoyed a beautiful Porter Ranch fall evening at this free event.
