Brenda Hackworth, ORNL Director of Community Outreach, presented the check to Rep. Les Winningham (D-Huntsville) during a special ceremony Tuesday at the school.
Winningham, who chairs the House Education Committee, said science education is critical for Oneida students' individual success and to regional economic growth.
"People of Oneida realize the importance of quality science education to their children, their community and to new businesses considering locating here," Winningham said. "The community's hard work has resulted in excellent schools, and this gift will help them achieve a higher standard of excellence in science education."
Also present at the ceremony were Henry Baggett, director, Oneida Special School District; Rick Harper, Oneida High School principal; and Lisa Delk, science teacher.
Oneida High School has 41 staff and faculty who serve about 380 students in grades nine through twelve. The school provides students with tutorial and after school programs, advanced placement classes and many other programs to enhance student learning.
Built in 1993, OHS has been in the top fifteen of Tennessee public high schools the last five years. The school's academic team has participated in the invitation only state tournament the last three years. Students there have earned more than $400,000 in scholarships for three years straight.
"OHS continually strives to be one of the best high schools in the state," Harper said. "We truly appreciate the support we have received from Rep. Winningham and UT-Battelle to help us achieve this goal.
"We will continue to challenge our students in all areas and now provide them with additional opportunities in science education."