About Us

Dawn Ballway (Founder) moved to the Charlotte area with her husband and two children. She previously lived in New Jersey and worked in the performing arts before having children. Dawn studied childhood development for many years. Realizing that science instruction in our schools has decreased consistently throughout the years, Dawn decided to fill the void by creating Atomz Lab. Her goal is to open the world of science to children by making hands-on science fun!
 

Lori Maple lives in the Charlotte area with her husband and three children. Prior to moving here, Lori lived in Maryland for 23 years and graduated from Towson State University in Baltimore Maryland with a Bachelors of Science degree. Lori has volunteered as a Girl Scout Leader, Head of Social Committee, Session Aide for Faith Formation and as Treasurer for school PTA/PTSOs. She currently enjoys teaching science to our preschoolers and young elementary students.










Donetta Dufrene (Ms. Netta) has lived in South Charlotte for 9 years. She is married with 2 teenage sons. She enjoys working in the community of Weddington as an Enrichment/Music Teacher at Southbrook Preschool and in the Childwatch at Burn Boot Camp, along with her assistant role with Atomz Lab. She considers it a joy to see so many students be enriched through science over the years.
 
 

 
 
 

 

"A Cool Experience For Young Scientists!"



International studies show that the United States continues to lag behind other countries in students' knowledge of science and math.

The poor rankings for U.S. students in these major tests provide alarming evidence that most of our students are not being prepared for a world that is shaped by science and technology.

Many people in the United States understand that in order for our society to remain competitive in an advanced technological era, a good science education is critical.