Science Focus Program

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The idea for the Science Focus Program originated in 1995. Teachers met and worked part time planning for the Zoo School, and part time teaching at their high schools. The original teachers were Jim Barstow, social sciences, Deb Sharp, English, De Tonack, math and physics, and Jane Obbink, natural sciences. Since then, Beth Briney came the second year to replace Deb Sharp, and Jane has since moved to Alaska, and was replaced by Sara LeRoy-Toren.

The main idea for the focus program was to give students an alternative to regular high school. The teachers' vision consisted of a place where students could come and feel welcome and comfortable enough to express their individual talents and ideas.

The school opened for the 1997-1998 school year, accepting juniors and seniors. Since then, changes have been made, allowing the Zoo School to accept sophomores and freshmen.

In 1999, Zoo School created its own Key Club, partnering with the Lincoln Kiwanis Club. Every week, students meet to work on fund-raising, community events, and volunteer work.

Zoo School's technology consists of a lab of iMacs, which arrived at the beginning of the 2006-2007 school year. There are 3 PowerMac G4s and 1 PowerMac G5, which enable students to create documentaries and video yearbooks using movie software, like Final Cut Express HD. Zoo School works with the Information Technology Program (also with LPS) to gain access to state of the art equipment.

Zoo School has made some changes throughout the years, but their goal is maintained: to give students the best education possible, to instill an excitement and a craving for knowledge, to teach and learn together.

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updated 02/2012 by Lincoln Nebraska