Lawton Science Night: Not the science fair of the past

The event featured hands-on activities throughout the school

Science fairs have come a long way from the days of rudimentary volcano models and students standing next to tri-fold posters. Thursday’s Science Night at Lawton Elementary proved that science can be a multi-sensory, hands-on experience and a celebration of learning and exploration.

Student classwork lined the walls as the fair was filled with interactive stations and exhibits. A true community effort, it was led by volunteers from local organizations such as the Leslie Science & Nature Center, Hands-On Museum, All Hands Active, AAPS Environmental Education program, Project Lead The Way, and The University of Michigan’s Tau Beta Pi engineering honor society joined forces to engage Lawton’s students and families.

Principal Rose Marie Callahan said the night—the first such science fair of its kind to be held at Lawton—was a big success.

“The Science Night event was a success for our students,” she said. “The community rallied in support of this event. We had partners from many groups who were here to guide our students in hands-on activities and scientific exploration. You could hear the excitement as students went from station to station. We have had many appreciations sent to the school, thanking everyone for planning such a fun evening. So many Lawton teachers volunteered to lead activity tables, but we have to note that our third grade teacher, Ms.Pike was a leader and champion of this event. We could not have done it without her leadership. Our staff continues to make Lawton a special place to learn and grow.”