Science and Nature Camp

1^st Annual SCSC Science & Nature Camp Huge Success—Date Set for 2006 Event!

The date is set—mark your calendars! The 2006 Science & Nature Camp will be held at Gustavus Adolphus College on October 24, 2006. This exciting new program is designed to interest students, grades 1–8, in the world of nature and scientific experimentation. This “hands-on” day offers students a chance to participate in stimulating sessions exploring numerous science and nature topics.

More than 150 students, parents and educators from south central Minnesota gathered October 25, 2005 at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter for the first annual South Central Service Cooperative’s Science & Nature Camp. Mad Science of Minnesota kicked off the day with an explosive demonstration of scientific properties called “Fire & Ice.” Students and chaperones then attended three age appropriate “hands-on” science/nature classes led by teaching faculty and graduate students from Minnesota State University-Mankato, Gustavus Adolphus College and Bethany Lutheran College.

Students enjoyed sessions ranging from the discovery of nature in the Linnaeus Arboretum to the study of rainbows and the observation of spectra, to the examination of the human/animal skeletal systems and the purposes for bugs—to name a few. Schools from St. Peter, Montgomery, Lonsdale, Jordan, Waseca, Belle Plaine and Mankato were represented at this first Camp. “We were delighted by the attendance and enthusiasm at this first year Camp,” said co-coordinator Melanie Schmidt. Plans are underway to bring more exciting educational science and nature opportunities to students in 2006—watch the SCSC website (www.mnscsc.org) for the 2006 brochure and up-to-date details.