Kingston-base Sacred Heart School has begun construction of its new $1 million science and innovation center.

Sacred Heart School is a private, Catholic, coeducational school serving students from preschool through grade 12.

Phase I of the project will be completed over the summer and will be ready for the start of the 2014-2015 school year. It will include a new biology lab with a fully functioning greenhouse, a new physical science lab, as well as a prep room with equipment for sterilization and refrigeration, a common space for faculty and an expanded computer science lab.

Phase II is scheduled for completion during the school year and will include a new Earth and space sciences lab that will also be used by the school’s new astronomy club. A state-of-the-art physics lab will round out the renovations.

"It is exciting to begin construction on our science and innovation center. Everything will be modern and create an environment that fosters discovery, innovation and learning," President Pamela Desmarais said in a statement. "Our affiliation with Bridgewater State University provides our students with the information and education they need to pursue higher learning and careers in these important fields."

Ai3 Architects of Wayland designed the center and the laboratories. Acella Construction of Norwell is the construction manager for the project.