Scientist For A Week

By Larissa Lytwyn

First graders at Hawley Elementary School have become little scientists recently, learning about basic concepts in biology and chemistry through the efforts of two parents, Beth Misner and Patti Winters.

After her son Steven’s then-kindergarten teacher taught an introductory science program using child-geared science texts and other resources, Ms Misner was inspired to introduce the program in other towns her family has moved to.

“The kindergarten teacher who first introduced to me to the program was in California,” said Ms Misner, whose husband’s career at General Electric requires frequent relocation. “We’ve also lived in the Midwest.”

Inspired by Ms Misner’s past work, Ms Winters volunteered to assist in starting a program at Hawley.

The mothers successfully appealed for $150 from the school’s PTA and received further assistance through the local CVS, Newtown Drug Pharmacy, and Taunton Embroidery.

The pharmacy donated medicinal droppers for the students to use while Taunton Embroidery tailored child-sized lab coats emblazoned with Hawley School’s name across the pockets.

“It meant so much to us, receiving this support,” said Ms Winters, who gathered the remainder of the program’s supplies using the $150 to order introductory science books and purchase backpacks from the Christmas Tree Shop in Danbury.

“It’s very cost-effective,” she continued, “and doesn’t place a strain on teachers or families.”

At the beginning of each week, a first grader has the chance to take home a backpack filled with easy-to-learn science experiments.

After studying the experiment for several days at home, they present it to classmates at the end of the week.

“It’s a great way for helping students learn public speaking skills,” said Ms Winters. “They are so proud of their work! It’s great to see them up there.”

Ms Misner said Steven’s favorite experiment is making a “little rocket” shooting a small object from a film cartridge filled with an Alka-Seltzer formula.

“He explains how the Alka-Seltzer forms the air bubbles needed to expel the object,” Ms Misner noted. “These experiments really help the children understand how something works in real detail.”

Ms Winters said her daughter Addi loves the program.

“Every week she is so excited to see what the experiment is!” she exclaimed. “It’s a lot of fun for her. The entire experience has been very rewarding.”