Do you know what Egyptian sarcophagi, chamber music and Rube Goldberg have in common?
They are all part of the exciting classroom experience and other support provided by the Lafayette Arts & Science Foundation to enrich the education of every Stanley Middle School student.

At Stanley Middle School, LASF delivers science, writing, social studies/art, foreign language and health education programs that supplement and enhance classroom curriculum. We provide funding for district-run programs in choral and instrumental music instruction, art, drama, woodshop and video technology.  Here are highlights of LASF programs this year:

•    In every 6th grade Core class, students embark on the ever popular Egyptian mummy sarcophagus project with LASF instructors.  Students make gold painted and bejeweled papier mache mummy cases as part of their study of ancient Egypt.  These unique pieces become family treasures that students remember long after middle school is done.

•    7th grade students meet one-on-one for two sessions with an LASF writing tutor to improve writing and organizational skills.  LASF writing tutors are experienced journalists, creative writers, teachers, and individuals with a passion for writing and helping students.

•    In the new LASF 8th grade science unit, Chemistry III, students experiment with chemical reactions using everything from yeast to magnesium to a potato slice.  They learn how transforming matter can effect a surprising change in the environment around them.

•    Music students are mentored by professional musicians funded by LASF.  Nearly every day, musicians stop by the band room to coach students on their specialty – French horn, percussion, clarinet, trombone, etc.

LASF funds over $1.2M of integral academic programs and services for Lafayette schools.  This year, we need to raise $1.5M.  If you have not already made your 2009-10 contribution to LASF, please help us reach our goal of 100% participation and donate now at www.lasf.org/donate or drop a check at the LASF table on registration day.

Every child.  Every classroom.  Every dollar counts.

Your Time is Valuable: Volunteer at LASF

Do you have professional skills in marketing, fundraising, project management, design or IT? Do you want to lead? LASF needs your talent for a variety of projects and positions. We are growing and changing in important ways. Come be a part of the solution for supporting public education in Lafayette. Contact Recruitment Chair Mary Bakos at mlbakos@yahoo.com or 284-4795.