SVVSD Innovation Center offers bioscience curriculum

The St. Vrain Valley School District Innovation Center is at the forefront of shaping the future of education, offering students opportunities to engage with cutting-edge fields such as bioscience, Aeronautics, robotics, music, video arts, and cybersecurity. The center prepares students for the workforce through hands-on learning, professional development, and collaboration with industry leaders.

The bioscience curriculum provides students with essential skills in biotechnology, biomedical engineering, and bioconservation. With an increasing population and aging demographic, the need for new medicine, medical devices, sustainable chemicals, fuels and agricultural innovations has never been higher.

Students participating in the bioscience program are responding to this need and positioning themselves to be at the forefront of scientific advancements. Instructors and mentors encourage students to tackle industry-related experiments in areas such as biotechnology, neuroscience, and species conservation.

The Innovation Center offers a rigorous selection of courses, including Bioscience Explorers, Experimental Science, Conservation Data Science, Introduction of Biotechnology, Principles of Biomedical Engineering, Anatomical Case Studies, Neuroscience Research and Design, and Biotechnology Capstone.

These classes provide students with access to lab tools and experiences that would be difficult to replicate in a traditional classroom environment. Students actively engage in the design and creation of prototypes, such as prosthetics and life support systems for space exploration, as well as engineering aquatic habitats, all under the mentorship of industry professionals.

Keagan McGuire, a bioscience student, emphasized the impact of the bioscience curriculum, saying, “I would argue that many task teams relate to the biosciences. Ecology is a matter of great importance in terms of environmental conservation and seems to be emphasized, which falls under the umbrella of biosciences.”

The connection between classroom learning and real-world environmental challenges is a big part of the Innovation Center’s approach. Students gain valuable exposure to the bioscience field through in-class and external opportunities. This practical experience nurtures a passion for science and tests the students’ interest in the field, helping then determine their future career paths. Additionally, the program promotes professional development, with certifications available for those looking to solidify their qualifications before entering the workforce.

Two project teams are a part of the bioscience curriculum as well. These teams provide students with even more focused opportunities for hands-on learning, The Conservation Data Science Team works on environmental conservation projects, partnering with organizations such as Boulder County Open Space, Oceans First Institute, the Denver Zoo, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

The Neuroscience Team merges cutting edge virtual reality (VR) technology with cognitive neuroscience to address the emotional well-being of teens, particularly in the post-pandemic world. By developing innovative ways to foster joy, empathy, and connection through VR, this team explores how technology can be used to enhance mental health. This unique combination of neuroscience and tech provides students with an exciting opportunity to explore new ways to help their peers, while also contributing to the growing field of cognitive neuroscience.

The partnerships between the center and a diverse group of sponsors, including the University of Colorado Boulder, ACG Biologics, University of Northern Colorado, LightDeck Diagnostics, Medtronic, Colorado State University, UC Health, EarthScope, NASA Hunch, NSF NEON, and KromaTiD, provide students with opportunities to collaborate with leading experts in the field.

As the demand for highly skilled professionals in biosciences grows, the Innovation Center prepares the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators, equipping them with the skills and experience they need to thrive in an ever evolving industry. Through hands-on programs, industry partnerships, and focus on real-world application, the center is laying the foundation for students to succeed in a rapidly changing world.