Lake County Gazette

Students in the Biotechnology pathway at Iver C. Ranum Innovation Campus recently learned about the real-world impact of their studies through a visit from Betsy Larrabee and her son Beau, who shared his experience overcoming childhood cancer with the help of CAR T-cell therapy. This immunotherapy treatment works by activating a patient’s immune system to fight cancer.

The curriculum at Ranum focuses on genetics and advanced sciences, providing students with lessons in genetic analysis and cancer biology that align with principles used in treatments like Beau's. Scott Troy, who leads the Biotechnology pathway, said, “Events such as this are a perfect way to demonstrate to students the importance of the learning and teaching we are doing at WHS and Ranum.” He added, “CAR T-cell therapy is a continuation of so many things that students learn in the Project Lead the Way Classes at WHS, and the Intro to Biotech and Biomed Engineering classes at Ranum.”

Beau was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia as a young boy and received his treatment at Children’s Hospital. Now free from cancer, he collaborates with the Emily Whitehead Foundation to promote awareness about advanced therapies and advocate for greater access.

Betsy Larrabee emphasized both scientific progress and compassionate care during her talk. She told students, “Every detail, big and small, was important,” highlighting how future healthcare professionals should remember small gestures when treating children. “There’s a story to tell. This is about bringing a story of healing to the next round of doctors and nurses.”

Troy remarked on how valuable it is for students to connect classroom learning with its effects beyond school: "there is a lesson for everyone on the campus. Allowing students the opportunity to see how the things they are learning actually enrich and save people's lives outside of a classroom is a unique opportunity."

During his visit, Beau showed his “Bravery Beads,” each representing medical procedures or injections he underwent during treatment—serving as symbols of perseverance.

Currently an eighth grader at Flagstaff Academy Charter School in Niwot, Beau enjoys sports like cross country and football as well as math. Reflecting on sharing his journey with others he said, “It’s fun! Plus, it’s a good opportunity to raise awareness and make a difference.”

This event marked the start of collaboration between HOSA (Future Health Professionals), Ranum Innovation Campus, and The Emily Whitehead Foundation. Together they will provide care packages for Colorado patients undergoing similar treatments.

Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 serves Lake County schools including Waukegan High School among others listed on its official report card website (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). The district enrolls diverse student populations: 3.2 percent White, 13.2 percent Black, 79.5 percent Hispanic, 1.3 percent Asian according to data from ISBE (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). With over one thousand teachers averaging $63,524 in salary before pension contributions—71 percent women—the district maintains consistent teacher attendance records (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). In 2020 spending per student reached $23,429 totaling more than $359 million (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/).