Kurt Vonnegut said, “Science is magic that works.” No truer words about science have ever been spoken. Human nature equips us with a desire to constantly learn and seek answers, and as forever students in life, we all have the capability to be scientists. Learning and exploration is what is happening at Jefferson Morgan High School. Chemistry teacher Megan Pierce is encouraging students to explore and experiment in their newly formed Science Club.
When Megan was being interviewed for her position with the district, she spoke with administrators of her desire to start a science club and how, through this club, she is very hopeful that stigmas surrounding the “nerdiness” of science go away. While she teaches chemistry at the school, the club will focus on all areas of science.
Administrators were excited about the formation of the club and shortly after being hired, Superintendent Brandon Robinson came to Megan with an idea as to how the district would not only provide new equipment for the Chemistry Lab, but also funds for the Science Club.
Megan taught at Waynesburg Central High School for 14 years; she taught Integrated and Physical Science. While she loved teaching at her alma mater and in the community where she went to college (Waynesburg University) her heart has always been for chemistry. She spoke of a high school teacher George Nader: she said he was tough but knew there was something about her that was special when it came to science. She referred to him as her mentor. Her desire to teach chemistry has come to pass and she also now has an opportunity to reach other students, in class and out, explore the wonders of science via the club.
The club met for the first time in October 2022. While only five students attended, Megan understood the apprehension of students. Her first assignment for the five was to simply invite friends to the next meeting. In November, attendance doubled, and she believes that the trend of growing attendance will continue.
Each meeting explores a different avenue of science. So far, they have made “oobleck” (a non-Newtonian fluid), analyzed density and buoyancy by using candy corn and aluminum foil boats, tested catapults, and created crystals in order to make their own snow globes for Christmas. There are many more exciting experiments planned for the rest of the year. The group is also planning a couple of field trips, as well as hopefully having area scientists visit and share their experiences with the students.
As an educator Megan wants her students to make the connections between science and life, and through this opportunity she is doing a job well done! Megan reminds her students, “Science is involved in every aspect of our lives from the clothes we wear, vehicles we drive, technology we utilize daily, and the food we eat.”
