Beech Tree News Network

Currently there is a push in education to enhance student participation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. These efforts reflect a growing trend to make our students more competitive in a changing global market for jobs.  Here in Butler County, we share the same ideas and goals. 

Through innovative programs, we hope to involve and include young students in opportunities to learn not only that science is fun—but it is rewarding and exciting.  The BCHS Science Club and sponsors hosted a Super Saturday inviting area 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students to participate in a variety of projects on April 20th, 2013. The theme this year was “Forensics: Science is so fun, it’s criminal”.   Forensics topics that were explored included: DNA fingerprinting, lifting fingerprints, pH of unknown substances, tracking, plaster mold of a suspect’s imprints, and blood typing. The lessons were supervised by exceptional high school students—elite members of our science club.  Challenging the high school students to prepare media, lead lessons and demonstrations ultimately cultivated their leadership acumen.  The day culminated in our enthusiastic participants solving a bear poaching “crime”. 

The goal of this program was not only to provide students with a positive experience, but also instill in them curiosity and motivation to seek an education steeped in the sciences.  Simply put, students that enjoy science and math in these tough economic times have a greater chance of success.  In Butler County, we believe in our students and know that they are capable of great things.  It is our hope through these innovative programs to produce life-long learners that are able to be successful, right here, at home.  With continued community support and involvement we will meet these goals.  If your young scientist missed out on Super Saturday, we hope to offer another event in the Spring 2014. A special thanks for the vital assistance and donations Karla Cole and Patty Glass with Butler County Youth Service Center, Embry and Elmore Vending, and RC Cola.