About Lab Schools
- Lab schools are K-12 schools established by postsecondary institutions to provide students an innovative, high-quality education experience
- Lab schools are the future of education—a partnership between postsecondary institutions, employers, school divisions and communities to innovate and best serve students
Creating a lab school
- All four and two year colleges and universities, public and private, as well as higher education centers are eligible to launch a lab school.
- All application materials can be found on the Virginia Department of Education’s website.
Opportunities to get involved
Partner with a postsecondary institution to bring a lab school to life. Private business and nonprofits can get involved by:
- Working with a lab school to spearhead academic programs in an in-demand field such as computer science, additive manufacturing, sports medicine, etc.
- Offering space in your office, lab, or studio so students can have firsthand experience in a work environment
- Sponsoring internships, shadow opportunities, or work study programs
- Serving as a board member on a lab school board and providing expertise on financial management, personnel, and program design
- Providing financial contributions to ensure the sustainability of the school
Innovation
Provide unique and hands-on learning opportunities. Lab schools can experiment with different subjects, schedules, and experiences for their students.
Partnership
Bring the outside world into the classroom. Businesses, nonprofits, and higher education institutions can all contribute their expertise to educating students in their community.
Quality
Use evidence-based best practices and high standards to give students a best-in-class education.