A group of science experts visiting area schools for the past 24 years is looking to recruit more volunteers.
Formerly known as Adopt-a-Scientist, the Science Discovery Squad was unveiled as the program's new name during a presentation Thursday morning at Errol Road Public School.
The change represents a combination of four existing volunteer elements -- science, bridge building, agriculture, and coding -- under the Science Education Partnership. The SEP was formed in 1992 between the Lambton Kent District School Board and the St. Clair Catholic District School Board to expand and support science programs for elementary students.
The first SEP volunteer program was formed in 1995 by a number of Imperial Oil retirees, and since then, members like Ron LaFlair have been wowing students with hands-on, interactive presentations -- LaFlair's homemade hoverboard is popular.
A 15-year-volunteer and former Lanxess employee, LaFlair said he's in it for the students.
"It's very satisfying to get a kid's attention, and we'd welcome anyone who's interested in entertaining and getting kids more interested in school," said LaFlair. "There are so many things in school these days that are abstract and only pay off a long time later. But if you get a kid's attention, wow... you've accomplished something."
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The group continues to visit area students from Kindergarten to Grade 8, but Partnership Technician Wendy Hooghiem said they're unable to keep up with demand.
Hooghiem said they've already had 273 requests this year, so they sure could use some extra help.
"The students actually get experts or people with knowledge about very specific types of science coming in the classroom," said Hooghiem. "For instance, for our agriculture division, we have farmers go in to talk about what they do to produce food. We have volunteer engineers go in to help with bridge building. So students get actual people who are employed in those areas to learn more about those topics first-hand."
SEP is looking for volunteers with an interest in all areas of science with a desire to help students learn about the subject.
For more information, or to get involved, click here.
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