Computer lab a 'launchpad for opportunity'

Editor's note: This story has been updated. SANDUSKY — Sandusky Schools had "a dream come true" thanks to local and state financial support. Officials from the community, school and state celebrated a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new computer lab on Wednesday. With support from the Ohio Career Technical Education Equipment Grant Program, the Dorn Foundation, the Hogrefe Foundation and an anonymous donor, the district could upgrade this student-first facility. The grant was equal to about $741,000, and the two foundations contributed $20,000 together, with the anonymous donor contributing an additional $15,000. "It's a dream come true," said Brandy Bennett, the school district's career technical education director. "It's an amazing opportunity for our students." Upgrading a 'bad' space Construction on the project began last summer as soon as the students took off for summer break, and it was completed by the time they returned from winter break. The space is open to students enrolled in the district's two-year career tech computer science program, those taking elective classes, freshmen students exploring programs, middle school students and the esports team. Bennett said the space was "bad" before the update. Originally used as an electrician teaching space in the 1970s, it was hot, without air conditioning, and the heating was inadequate. She said there was also a better chance of getting struck by lightning than getting a signal. "While we really are all about tradition at Sandusky Schools, we are also about excellence for our students," Bennett said. "We want to give them the curriculum and the tools they need to succeed, and that's what the space is about now." Despite the problems associated with the space, Bennett said the students using the room were drawn to it for classes and after-school programs like esports. Bennett credited Eric Talbot, director of leadership and innovation, for what the space turned into. She said he was insistent that the students needed a computer science program to be competitive in the workforce. Several officials attending the event took to the podium to express their excitement for the project and the future of the district's programs. Speakers included: • Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel, who could not attend in person but submitted a video congratulating the district and describing the space as a "launchpad for opportunity" • Board president Martha Murray • Talbot, who said the space gives students an opportunity to have the best so they can be their best • City commissioner and ex offico mayor Kate Vargo, who gave a formal proclamation recognizing the lab • Jaxon Fouse gave his perspective on the project as a student and current IT intern at Bowling Green State University Firelands. State Rep. D.J. Swearingen, R-Huron, could not attend the ribbon cutting but Bennett said he has been a big supporter of the district.