Eastern Kentucky University (EKU)’s Model Laboratory School is a living learning laboratory, and the only one of its kind in Kentucky. The laboratory environment creates a unique and unmatched opportunity for EKU undergraduate and graduate students to apply both hands-on experience and research in disciplines ranging from education, nursing, occupational therapy, school safety, and other disciplines in collaboration with one of the leading early childhood, elementary, secondary and highschools in the Commonwealth. 

EKU greatly appreciates the work of our representatives in Frankfort for their ongoing investment in our commitment to teacher education, exemplified by their funding for the construction of a new facility for the Model Laboratory Schools.

Established in 1906, EKU has continued to provide an immersive learning experience through Model Lab, officially deemed the sole university lab school in Kentucky and the Commonwealth’s Lab School by the General Assembly in 2020. The new Model Lab campus will include innovative learning spaces for students from early childhood to 12th grade, alongside facilities designed to support EKU students training for professions in education, speech and occupational therapy, psychology and other disciplines.

The newly constructed school will help fulfill EKU’s vision of providing a cutting-edge, hands-on learning laboratory to empower the next generation of Kentucky educators solidifying EKU as a leader in teacher education. Visit this website for frequent updates on our progress. We are excited about the future of Model Laboratory Schools and look forward to sharing this journey with our students, parents, and community. Thank you for your continued support and patience during this transition.

The image shown is a preliminary concept and may not represent the final architectural design of the new Model facility.

Parent Feedback Opportunity

EKU and Model Lab are pleased to share the latest developments in the construction of the new Model facility. After months of collaboration with architects, preliminary schematics are now available for review.

Superintendent John Williamson and EKU President David McFaddin will present the draft designs and provide updates at the upcoming Model Parent Organization (MPO) meeting on Thursday, February 20, at 6:00 p.m. This meeting will offer an opportunity for parents and stakeholders to gain insight into the project’s progress and share feedback.

As the Commonwealth's only laboratory school housed within a public university, Model remains a vital part of EKU’s commitment to excellence in education. EKU and Model welcome community engagement in shaping this exciting new chapter.

Those interested in providing input may do so through the Feedback Form.

• Superintendent John Williamson to host Parent Feedback Session at the MPO meeting on February 20, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.

  • Feedback Form

• Parent Letter: New Model Facility Update (September 27, 2024)

• Press Release: Eastern Kentucky University Announces Location for New Model Laboratory School (September 27, 2024)

• Eastern Kentucky University President: Model Laboratory School and College of Education and Applied Human Sciences Synergy Initiative

• Parent Letter: New Model Facility Fully Funded by General Assembly (April 25, 2024)