On Oct. 27, MSMS students and science faculty will be entertaining and educating local elementary students about the wonders of science. As a school-wide activity hosting 1,000 “little ones,” the all-day event of the Science Carnival requires much planning from administrative coordinators, faculty, and students.

“It does demand a lot from teachers and from students, but that is a big part of the mission of our school, outreach,” said Kaye Truitt, chemistry teacher and faculty member in charge of the hydrophobic/hydrophilic instruction station. “So I think that we’re making sure that who we reach is not just kids in this local geographical area, but that we are reaching out to kids across the state. I also think that the fact that we are willing to do this with other students encourages other teachers to do it as well. I think we are just promoting a love for science across the state.”

With only two weeks left until the hectically busy day of Science Carnival, preparations are beginning to involve students. During the day, students are required to help accomplish a successful Science Carnival by working as a presenter, guide, or set up/tear down crew member. Presenter positions were mostly filled during the week of Oct. 5-9, but other jobs are still available. During a mandatory meeting on Oct. 13 at 2:40 pm, students will get the opportunity to learn more about the available positions and how to sign up for them and will also get advice on Science Carnival dress code and conduct.

Some senior students are working in the same positions they held last year. “Last year I was still figuring out what I was doing, so this year it will be smoother,” said Laurel Lancaster, a presenter for the biology station on camouflage.  

For juniors, who are still hesitant about Science Carnival, Lancaster recommends, “With any job, just be enthusiastic. It’s important to get kids interested in science.” Whether set up/tear down crew or presenter, MSMS students will get the opportunity to contribute to the scientific education of elementary students.

“One of my favorite things about Science Carnival is the day after when I hear all the students coming in and talking about what it is like to be a teacher for a day,” said Truitt. “I love the fact that our students at MSMS get the chance to be on the other side of the desk because it makes things better in the classroom.”

While teaching varying aspects of science and fostering an appreciation of science in younger students, MSMS students will also get the chance to experience the daily routine of a teacher. From the funny hypotheses elementary students suggest to their amazement at demonstrations, the visitors during the MSMS Science Carnival will leave some memories with their high school-aged instructors while taking memories of MSMS and scientific discovery with them.