Gusty winds and rain did little to deter the more than 400 students that attended the SCSC Science & Nature Conference on October 26 from a great day of exploration. While college students at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter had time off to prepare for midterm exams, students in grades 3-9 from 38 area schools used their classrooms to explore science and nature topics ranging from Birding 101 to YOU Can Invent.

 

Mad Science of Minnesota presented to the large group on Newton’s Laws of Motion with a little electricity for good measure. Through a combination of instruction and awe, Scott “Mr. Dude” Clark excited the students about science.

 

Students also selected three breakout sessions to attend throughout the day. These hour-long sessions are designed to be small group, hands-on interactions on a specific topic in science. This year’s diverse selection of topics allowed students a wide selection. 

“It's a nice way to expose students to various branches of science," a chaperone commented.

 

The presenters, with bios are too diverse to list, commented on the impeccable behavior of the students. 

“The students were superb. It was a treat being in their company,” said one presenter.

Many thanks go to the presenters that gave of their time and talents to make this day a success!