More than 440 students attended the SCSC Science & Nature Conference on October 23 for 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 3-6 from 36 area schools used their classrooms to explore science and nature topics ranging from nanoscience to skyscrapers.

 

Bob Kann, an author, professor of education, storyteller juggler and magician, addressed the crowd about preserving the planet and making a difference. Through a combination of instruction and awe, Kann excited the students about science.

 

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

 

“When I was growing up, science didn’t seem this fun. I wish I could have attended a conference like this back then," a chaperone commented.

 

The presenters came from many disciplines including college professors, master naturalists, the Bakken Museum, Ecology Bus, Minnesota Department of Health, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, Science Museum of Minnesota, The Works, University of Minnesota Extension and Zoomobile. 

 

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