Racine Lutheran High has set sights on expanding its science program. The school recently added new equipment, due to the generosity of a school supporter. The science department received seven five-objective binocular microscopes - with five lenses for different levels of magnification and two eyepieces for easily viewing specimens. Students can magnify a sample from 40 to 1,000 times its natural size, for optimal study.

Also, the department now has a trinocular microscope with a dark field condenser. This scope has two eyepieces for the person viewing a specimen, and a third eyepiece used for photography or video. A microscope camera can project the specimen onto a monitor or screen for viewing by the class; this also allows notation and labeling. A dark field condenser provides bright illumination of a sample against a dark background; this is especially useful for studying mitosis (cell division), tissue cultures, or water-born samples. The new equipment will benefit upper- level science classes, which include a special focus on labs and interactive learning. Science Teacher Kevin Hasseldahl says the new microscopes will expand capabilities – especially in genetics and anatomy classes. Racine Lutheran also offers biology, chemistry, forensic science, lab science, physics, and zoology courses. “Next, we are planning for a microbiology class,” Hasseldahl notes.

“Including more labs and hands-on activities in our biology and science classes enriches our program,” he adds. “Our new modified schedule is allowing weekly labs, and this interactive learning supports what we learn from textbooks. Multiple teaching styles are vital to successful learning, application, and retention. We have a goal of encouraging more students to pursue science careers.”

Racine Lutheran High provides Christian education and academic excellence to families of all faiths. The school is located at 251 Luedtke Avenue in Racine. For further information, call the Admissions Office at 637-6538. Visit the school’s website at www.racinelutheran.org.