Third graders at Norma J. Paschal Elementary School, fifth-graders at Wilder Intermediate School and seventh-graders at Corbett Junior High School dove into hands-on science exploration during a vibrant Science Expo, investigating stations like glo germs, rainbow science, handwriting analysis and the ever-popular Whoosh station - where a teacher or coach allows volunteers to have their hands set on fire (using a safe, supervised chemical process) through combustion to make physics come alive.
Paige Meloni, SCUC Superintendent of Schools, was an active participant, bravely offering the use of her hands for the demonstration at Wilder Intermediate on November 19, 2025.
It was all under the watchful eyes of students from Samuel Clemens High School, who guided the students through each station during their respective visits to the campuses with enthusiasm and patience.
These high school mentors—our current Buffs teaching and growing our future Buffs—brought energy and knowledge to every demonstration. Their passion for science was contagious, creating meaningful connections across grade levels and reinforcing mentorship as a catalyst for learning.
Paschal ES was the first stop on October 28, followed by Wilder Intermediate in November, and concluding with Corbett on December 10. This peer-to-peer learning helped spark curiosity and wonder through real-world demonstrations. Funded by a generous grant from the SCUC Education Foundation, this initiative brings science lessons and experiences directly to young learners, fostering a love for discovery and laying the foundation for future STEM success.
Kacy Debney, Environmental Science teacher at Clemens HS, explained how the lessons were similar at each campus, but tailored for the different grade levels. “At Paschal Elementary, for instance, maybe acid-base reactions aren’t covered,” she said. “They do have process skills of observation, so we’re tapping into those process skills for them to see and spark those interests that way.”
By introducing foundational concepts, the visits are allowing the students to understand the higher-level critical thinking skills needed as they advance in their education. These experiences help SCUC to continue to grow upon a culture of inquiry, curiosity and innovation and a shared commitment to student growth.