- Discover Episcopal
- Admission
- Our Program
- Athletics
- Arts
- Spirituality
- Student Life
- Support Episcopal
- Alumni
- Parent Support
- Knightly News
- Contact Us
- Calendar
- School Store
- Lunch Menu
- Summer Camps
« Back
A Day at the Museum Encourages a Lifetime of Science Exploration
March 4th, 2020
The program description on LSU’s website reads, “Wanted: GIRLS who are problem solvers, explorers and hidden gem seekers.” Episcopal Lower School students Lila Awad, Lilianna Latour and Julia Whitney answered the call. The trio recently spent a day at the LSU Museum of Natural Science with girls from across the area and some of LSU’s leading women scientists. From the smiles on their faces as they discuss the experience, it is apparent that the day made an impression on these future scientists.
The two fourth graders and one fifth grader love science. In fact, they are already hoping to have successful science careers of their own. Lila dreams of being a science teacher, Lilianna plans to be a neurologist and Julia wants to find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. After spending a day among female mathematicians, zoologists and biochemists, the girls are inspired to make their dreams come true. “I got to see how women scientists make a difference,” says Lilianna. She says it was a great opportunity because it made participants see how important science is to exploring the world.
In the meantime, the students simply had fun with science during this special day. Lila reported that her favorite part of the visit was seeing the “biggest frog.” Talk of the giant amphibian sparked a conversation among the students about the organs and skeleton of the frog. The students’ eyes and faces light up as they talk about touching the taxidermy sloth and river otter. In addition to the animals, there was also the rocket launch. This was Lilianna’s favorite part of the day, especially when her rocket traveled 35 ½ feet.
The students unanimously report that they would participate in the museum day again if given the chance. The 32 museum day participants were chosen based on an essay application in which they had to write about the question they would like to answer as a scientist or mathematician. Julia hopes everyone will apply next application period. All three agree that writing an essay was certainly worth having the experience.
The science teachers also hope that more students will be inspired to apply next year. “This is a great opportunity for girls to get hands-on science experience outside of the classroom,” says fourth grade teacher Ros Won. “In our fourth grade classes we explore topics such as electricity and landforms, but when students can participate in science programs off-campus, they can see how the things we learn at Episcopal can be applied in the real world.”
Fifth grade teacher Nicole Engstrom sees experiences like this as an extension of the classroom. “One of our roles as teachers is to give space and encourage our students to take risks, explore, reflect and find their passion(s),” she says. “The best way to do that is by exposing our students to as many opportunities as possible without limits- breaking stereotypes. It's our job to empower all students to find what best fits them.”
Both teachers appreciate the resources available through LSU and the opportunities the university offers to a range of students. They are also looking forward to using the new QUEST Center next year to offer hands-on experiences for students right here on Episcopal’s campus.
Whether it is a day at the museum or an in-depth project-based learning experience, Episcopal students are exploring their world in preparation for their futures. Students are encouraged to think beyond the ordinary and strive for their goals whatever they may be. Their futures certainly are bright!
The Episcopal School of Baton Rouge 2024-2025 application is now available! For more information on the application process, to schedule a tour, or learn more about the private school, contact us at [email protected] or 225-755-2685.
Posted in the categories All, Lower School.
Other articles to consider
- May16Episcopal Welcomes Father Patrick Edwards as New Head Chaplain
Learn more about new Episcopal Head Chaplain Father Patrick Edwards.
See Details - May16Lower School Happenings - May 2024
There's excitement and joy in Lower School as students wrap up the school year. Check out the latest projects.
See Details - May16Future Business Leaders Benefit from Spring Lessons/Community Support
Episcopal students participated in two real-world learning experiences – the What’s Your Bright Idea? Episcopal Pitch Contest and the annual Burkenroad Reports Investment Conference.
See Details - May8College Announcements 5.10.24
Please join us in congratulating members of the Class of 2024 as they announce their college enrollment decisions.
See Details
Categories
- All
- Admission
- Athletics
- College Bound 2019
- College Bound 2020
- College Bound 2021
- College Bound 2022
- College Bound 2023
- College Bound 2024
- Counselors Corner
- Episcopal Alumni
- Giving
- Head Of School
- Lower School
- Middle School
- Spirituality And Service
- Student Work
- The Teachers' Lounge
- Upper School
- Visual And Performing Arts
Recent Articles
- 05/16/24Episcopal Welcomes Father Patrick Edwards as New Head Chaplain
- 05/16/24Lower School Happenings - May 2024
- 05/16/24Future Business Leaders Benefit from Spring Lessons/Community Support
- 05/8/24College Announcements 5.10.24
- 05/7/24Episcopal's Addisyn Botos Will Continue Track & Field at Southern Miss
- 05/7/24Spring Sports Success!
- 05/3/24Episcopal Audiences Wowed by "The Children of Willesden Lane"
- 05/3/24Service Learning & Community Impact Students Share Thoughts on Earth Day
- 05/2/242024 Mums of Alums Luncheon Draws Large Crowd of Supportive Mums
- 05/2/24College Announcements 5.3.24