Slated to start in March, students at Cullowhee Valley School will get hands-on education in the biology, physics and chemistry of streams and rivers. Students in the afterschool program for fourth-, fifth- and sixth-grades will participate in data collection and analysis, introducing them to scientific inquiry and fostering a holistic understanding of the importance of watersheds.

“It will be an excellent opportunity for students to engage with scientists and professionals, see the connection of STEM fields in their lives, and gain confidence in their abilities to collect and present data,” said Karen Kandl, associate director of the Highlands Biological Station.

The program is a partnership between the Highlands Biological Station, Highlands Biological Foundation, Cullowhee Valley School and Western Carolina University’s biology department and School of Teaching and Learning.

The program is possible through a three-year, $159,000 grant from the Student Science Enrichment Program of the Burroughs-Wellcome Fund, headquartered at Research Triangle Park. In addition to purchasing equipment and materials, the grant will provide stipends for internships, teacher involvement and related project costs.

Participants will gather annually at Highlands Biological Station to assess their progress and share their results with the community.

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