October 3, Winston-Salem State University celebrated an exciting new chapter with the grand opening of its revamped Curriculum Materials Center (CMC) and Innovative Teaching Lab. This event also marked the launch of the Mobile STEAM Lab: Bringing Classrooms to Communities, designed to bring educational opportunities to underserved areas.
The renovation transformed the CMC and Innovative Teaching Lab into modern spaces that equip education majors and pre-majors with the resources they need to thrive in today’s classrooms. Located in the Anderson Center, these updated facilities feature a model teaching lab and the latest technology, giving future teachers a leg up in their training.
Dr. Anthony Graham, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs, spoke about the impact of these changes, stating, “The preparation faculty have designed a Curriculum Materials Center that is cutting-edge and provides state-of-the-art resources for WSSU’s Pre-K-12 educator preparation candidates. With current digital technology and a model elementary classroom, our faculty and students have access to the materials they need to plan culturally responsive instruction for young people in our Pre-K through 12 public schools.”
In addition to the renovations, the Mobile STEAM Lab provides a hands-on way for teacher education majors to engage with their communities. This initiative lets students bring innovative science, technology, engineering, arts, and math experiences directly into schools and neighborhoods that need them most.
Dr. Graham highlighted how important these resources are, saying, “Our candidates have the resources they need to prepare adequately for the state-required assessments that they must pass to become licensed teachers in North Carolina.” He applauded the faculty for their inventive approach to creating a curriculum that meets the diverse needs of students, both at WSSU and in the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools district.
The ceremony also featured a heartfelt tribute from Dr. Kim D. Pemberton, chair of the WSSU Department of Education, who dedicated a plaque honoring Winston-Salem Teachers College. This recognition celebrated the educators who paved the way for today’s students. “Students, this new facility has been designed with you in mind. Use it and use it wisely,” she urged, emphasizing the importance of making the most of the new resources available.
WSSU actively invests in the next generation of educators through its newly renovated facilities and innovative programs, demonstrating a strong commitment to improving educational experiences and equipping future teachers to make a positive impact in their communities.
