SRNS ‘STEM That Travels’ Program Captivates K-12 Classes
Friday, April 19th, 2024
Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) captivates K-12 classes through the “STEM That Travels” volunteer program, in which expert scientists and engineers from the Savannah River Site (SRS) enrich science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)-based curriculums in area schools.
“Our volunteers work with eight different school districts to support numerous career fairs, STEM-themed events, and classroom activities,” said Cindy Hewitt, SRNS Education Outreach Specialist. “The sky is the limit for this program, as we continue to craft awe-inspiring demonstrations and interactive lessons.”
SRNS Manager of Engineering Technical Services Eric Johnson conducts a fire protection experiment during the “STEM That Travels” family event at Millbrook Elementary.
SRNS Manager of Engineering Technical Services Eric Johnson had the chance to volunteer at Millbrook Elementary’s “Family STEM Night.” He demonstrated fire protection engineering and home evacuation plans for over 300 attendees.
“Seeing students ‘light up’ during our fire demonstrations was the most rewarding part of the night,” said Johnson. “I continue to volunteer for ‘STEM That Travels,’ to provide more insight into fire protection careers and help students understand the importance of fire safety at home.”
“We are building a strong foundation in math and critical thinking skills that can be used cross-curricular,” said Jacque Osteen, Millbrook Elementary School Principal. “STEM demonstrations inspire and motivate parents to introduce math and science careers to their child at an early age. Involving companies like SRNS, in family STEM nights helps to bring new or niche occupations to light.”
For four decades, SRS Education Outreach and the University of South Carolina Aiken (USC Aiken) Ruth Patrick Science Education Center (RPSEC) have partnered to infuse the wonder of science into learning experiences for students. SRS volunteers support area schools by utilizing RPSEC science and math kits for educational displays and activities.
“Our volunteers are able to reserve science kits from RPSEC to conduct demonstrations and experiments,” said Hewitt. “We continue to highlight the Department of Energy’s mission-critical skills and careers to support a capable workforce.”
SRNS Engineering Volunteers Nicole Drey, far right, and Daniel Feinauer, right, discuss STEM career opportunities with Kennedy Middle School students.
Four SRS volunteers participated in Kennedy Middle School’s “Career Reality Fair” for more than 340 students.
One eighth grade student at Kennedy Middle, Saradyuti “Sara” Krovvidi, dreams of becoming an Astrophysicist and attended the STEM event to explore more opportunities in her career cluster. “I learned a lot about nuclear engineering from SRS volunteers and I’m now looking into an internship or apprenticeship experience at the Savannah River Site that complements my future career choice.”
SRNS Engineering Manager Stephanie Hudlow volunteers at South Columbia Elementary to share engineering career information with over 75 students.
South Columbia Elementary Educator Lexi Tanner was excited to have SRS volunteers support the school’s “Career Day,” which impacted over 225 students and educators.
“Having STEM professionals step into our classroom and create interest in new opportunities helps students imagine their future selves in those jobs,” said Tanner. “I would highly recommend this experience to other educators that are looking for new classroom experiences and presentations.”
SRNS “STEM That Travels” reaches six schools in South Carolina and two in Georgia. For more information or to request an SRS STEM expert for your next event, click here.
