The Grace B. Luhrs University Elementary School (GBLUES) is the continuing expression of Shippensburg University's commitment to quality teacher preparation. Since 1871, Shippensburg University has provided its students and its surrounding community with a model school.
Thanks to the cooperative agreement between Shippensburg University and the Shippensburg Area School District, Shippensburg University is the only university in Pennsylvania with an on-campus public elementary lab school. This laboratory school, attached to the university's College of Education and Human Services, provides a setting for university students from many majors to observe and participate in elementary school activities.
In conjunction with the adjacent Child and Family Center, university students majoring in education, early childhood, psychology, sociology, criminal justice, social work and counseling can engage in the study of children from ages one to eleven. University students can observe classes from observation booths, tutor students in core content areas of reading and math, or participate in whole-class activities.
Grace B. Luhrs School is a member of the International Association of Laboratory Schools (IALS).
About the Lab School
The cornerstone of teaching is the focus and commitment on the growth and development of the whole child. Teachers promote creativity, social development, cognitive skills, emotional health and physical growth. Education progresses in a pace consistent with the developmental needs and abilities of each child.
Our open-door policy encourages families as active participants in school. Families, university students, and other volunteers contribute to all school activities.
Expectations for Shippensburg University Students Observing or Participating in Projects
As a university student involved in course-specific activities with GBLUES, please review the expectations, guidelines, and application for working with GBLUES students. Written project descriptions must be received and approved one week before the anticipated start project start date.
Information for Families
School-Day Procedures
Drop-off and pick-up information, as well as attendance and valuables policies can be found here.
Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)
Research has shown that when parents and communities are involved in the classrooms of their children, students excel. We know this to be true at GBLUES, where together we all achieve uncommon outcomes.
How to Enroll Your Child
GBLUES is not a Shippensburg School District assigned school and your student must first be fully registered with the district and complete a GBLUES application to be considered for enrollment.
GBLUES Handbook
This handbook provides general information concerning Grace B. Luhrs University Elementary School’s programs and procedures. It is designed to give parents and students answers to questions and serve as a reference throughout the year.
Additional GBLUES Information
GBLUES is the first certified green school building in Pennsylvania. In its construction and daily operation, the building is designed to be an energy efficient, low environmental-impact building. It provides school districts in Pennsylvania with a model of an inviting, healthy, pleasant physical environment that was constructed at a reasonable cost.