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About the Lab Specialist Chapter
The need for lab specialists
Aside from the services we provide as described in our list of duties, the following is a list of reasons to keep laboratory specialists in our schools. I have compiled this for your information and reference should you become aware of possible excessing in your school or district.
- The state requirements for the laboratory component of Regents’ science classes is 1,200 minutes (equivalent to 30 lab sessions of 40 minutes each).
- The state has mandated new designated laboratory exercises in Regents sciences.
- A practical examination is required for the earth science Regent, which requires the set up and maintenance of three stations.
- Practical examinations for chemistry, physics and living environment will soon be implemented.
- The state now requires an 8th grade Intermediate Level Science Examination that requires laboratory classes in preparation for this physical examination.
- Due to the additional science classes there are now more science teachers who rely on the laboratory specialist to provide equipment for demonstrations and lab set ups and other science materials.
- There are more new science teachers who require instruction and guidance regarding the availability and safe use of science equipment and materials.
- Laboratory specialists maintain chemical and equipment inventories.
- Laboratory specialists do all the purchasing for the science department.
- What will become of the chemicals left unattended in our schools if there is no laboratory specialist to attend to them?
- What will become of the valuable science equipment if there is no laboratory specialist to maintain it?
- Who will ensure that schools are in compliance with the regulations set up by OSHA, OOSH and the FDNY if there is no laboratory specialist on staff?
- Laboratory specialists are the only pedagogues currently trained in chemical handling, chemical waste removal and chemical spill response. Who will ensure the safety of staff and students if there is no trained specialist on staff?
