Science Garage grows exploration enthusiasm

The 6,900-square-foot classroom built and equipped by Genentech will help establish student interest in the biotechnology industry, said officials who hope the modern facility will develop the next generation of scientists.

Justin Elstrott, a Genentech scientist who volunteers teaching science lessons at the school district, said he believes the lab will meet the company’s desire to draw from a future wave of passionate workers.

“We want kids who are interested in science and we want them well trained,” said Elstrott, while manning a station at the ribbon-cutting ceremony showing students ways to use the new microscopes.

Genentech CEO Bill Anderson shared a similar sentiment, and said he believes the Science Garage will help youngsters hone the skills needed to pursue a career in South San Francisco’s hub of life sciences companies.

While expressing his appreciation for the new lab’s opening, he said the real magic is slated to begin once students are able to start working alongside their teachers and volunteers.

He added the lab is a testament to the faith of Genentech officials in the burgeoning skills and abilities of the youth in South San Francisco, where his company is headquartered.

“We believe in you and your future,” said Anderson, to cheers from the crowd.

The Science Garage opening is the most recent initiative offered to the school district by Genentech, which launched the FutureLab program as part of its ongoing effort to support local science curriculum.

Genentech also offers an opportunity for nearly 4,000 district students to take field trips to the company’s headquarters in South San Francisco, as well as job shadowing opportunities and plans to implement a couple of $50,000 scholarships to high school students interested in pursuing a degree in scientific fields.

Through FutureLab, elementary students will have an opportunity to engage in weekly mentoring activities with Genentech employees which are designed to spark interest in science.

Middle school students can compete in Helix Cup, a new annual competition that pits teams of students against each other in projects that encourage scientific thinking, problem-solving and teamwork.

Shawnterra Moore, superintendent of the South San Francisco Unified School District, said she believes the project will help inspire and encourage students to pursue an interest in science, a field which is “truly about the magic of exploration and discovery.”

School board Vice President Daina Lujan agreed, and said she hopes the lab will encourage the interest of young women and other demographic groups currently underrepresented in science to consider the field.

“What’s before us is the opportunity to shift the trend,” she said.

Lujan’s colleague on the board John Baker said beyond the educational benefits offered to students, he appreciated the collaboration between a local private company and the public school system.

“It’s great to see a company in the community giving back,” he said.

Back in the lab where Elstrott helped students view and understand the journey of bacteria through his microscope station, he said he is already able to see the enthusiasm for science grow.

As a professional reflecting on his formative years, Elstrott glowed when discussing the potential lessons that could be offered South San Francisco’s students at the Science Garage.

“This is huge,” Elstrott said. “I would have killed for something like this when I was a kid.”

austin@smdailyjournal.com

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