Prairie State will use $1M federal grant for dental hygiene program lab
A million dollars will go a long way for Prairie State’s dental hygiene program.
U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly presented a $1 million check from federal community project funding to assist the dental school’s lab, which will feature dental simulators, X-ray machines and inpatient dental chairs.
Rebecca Buckle, assistant professor and clinical coordinator of the dental hygiene school, said the money will be used to create a state-of-the-art simulation laboratory for students to practice their clinical skills.
“The sim lab will enable our students to gain a valued, hands-on experience which will increase their confidence and competence in delivering dental hygiene and assisting services and procedures including preventive care, restorative and periodontal treatments,” Buckle said.
The simulator lab will provide valued hands-on experience and high fidelity mannequins, said assistant professor Kathleen Karwoski during a facility tour following the announcement.
Dental hygiene is an 82-credit hour career program leading to an associate degree in applied science degree. There is a wait list to enroll in the program and the federal community project funding will allow more students to enroll, according to the college.
“When Prairie State told my office about their need to reengage students, grow a state-of-the-art dental program and allow for uninterrupted learning, we got to work,” Kelly said.
The funding will complete the build out of the facility and create a more efficient and effective learning environment for students and ensure they have the tools they need to succeed, Kelly said.
“I am so proud of what is happening in this building,” said Prairie State College President Michael Anthony.
The money will go directly to expanding Prairie State’s reach in serving the community, filling the workforce and doubling the number of individuals who will take these courses as a result of the funding, Anthony said.