Jefferson Elementary STEM Ambassadors Monitor Water Quality at Cherry Creek
WARSAW, IN - Fifth grade STEM Ambassadors from Jefferson Elementary are taking part in real-world environmental science by monitoring water quality at Cherry Creek. Through a grant from Hoosier Riverwatch, a program of the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM), students received professional water monitoring equipment, including aquatic nets, turbidity tubes, chemical testing kits, and other supplies.
Students are collecting and analyzing water quality data and reporting their findings to the State of Indiana. Their work contributes to statewide efforts to monitor and protect the health of Indiana’s lakes and streams. By participating in authentic field research, students gain hands-on experience while learning the importance of conservation and stewardship of natural resources.
The project is led by Chuck Harvuot, leader of the Jefferson STEM Ambassador Corps, with support from Darci Zolman, former Program Administrator of the Kosciusko Soil and Water Conservation District and a supporter of the Master Naturalist program.
“It’s important for students to get out into the field and do hands-on science,” said Chuck Harvuot. “When students test water quality, collect data, and report their findings, they’re not just learning about science, they’re doing the work that helps protect our local waterways and environment. These students are learning they can make a real difference in their community.”
“One of the most important things we can do in STEM education is give students opportunities to solve real-world problems that directly affect their lives,” said Derek Pike, Jefferson STEM Coach. “Through the Hoosier Riverwatch program, our students are using the same tools and processes as environmental scientists. They are not just learning about these careers, they are stepping into them.”
“At Jefferson Elementary, we believe students learn best when they are engaged in meaningful, real-world work,” said Principal Joshua Wall. “Our STEM Ambassadors are not only learning science, they are serving their community by helping monitor and protect our local waterways. We are incredibly proud of our students and grateful for the partnerships that make opportunities like this possible.”
Jefferson Elementary’s STEM Ambassador program gives students opportunities to apply science, technology, engineering, and math skills in authentic settings while making a positive impact in their community.
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Photo Caption: Priya Klingaman, Brynlee Braddock, Kinsley Purdy, Josie Hornaday, Emma Watson, Elliott Hodge, Chuck Harvuot, Faith Yeager, Elliana Kline, Simon Getty, Peter Warren, Ryder Isabel, Darci Zolman
Photo 2: Emma Watson, Elliott Hodge, Brynlee Braddock, Josie Hornaday, Kinsley Purdy, Priya Klingaman