Local teachers prepare students for summer science adventure

Forty middle school students from throughout Onondaga County were selected to take part in the 19th annual Bristol-Myers Squibb Science Horizons program at Syracuse University. The program, which includes field trips, lectures and hands-on learning opportunities, will kick off on Monday, June 27.

Fully funded by Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS) and hosted by University College, Science Horizons gives local seventh- and eighth-grade students an opportunity to learn from highly innovative scientists, experienced teachers and SU students and faculty.

Four veteran middle school and high school teachers will return to provide instruction to the students in the areas of technology, chemistry, geology, physics, anatomy and ecology. Kim Buchanan from Fabius-Pompey Middle School-High School; Theresa Hunter and Kathleen Kolb from Pine Grove Middle School, and Ben Gnacik from Fayetteville-Manlius High School will lead the instruction. They will be assisted by SU graduate students Nadia Essi and Matthew Brincka. Essi is also a former Science Horizons participant. High school students and former participants Phebe Alley from Jordan Elbridge High School and Nathan James from C.W. Baker High School will act as mentors.

The program is designed to encourage students’ interest in science and technology and to foster interest in science-related careers.

The students will visit sites around the SU campus and the community, including Bristol-Myers Squibb. For more information, contact Sandra Barrett at 315-289-7217 or ssbarret@uc.syr.edu, or visit http://www.uc.syr.edu/community/bristol/index.html.