4-H National Youth Science Day celebrated on the reservation

October 25, 2017 | LXXVII No. 31

Elementary students experience the effects of static electricity (Connor Katich, front lower left of photo) - submitted photo

The first week in October is National 4-H week. This week marks that beginning of the new 4-H year. The first Wednesday in October is set aside to showcase STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) and help spark kids' interests in through hands-on science experiments.

Keller elementary students, grades K – 6, participated in the fun science experiment "Incredible Wearables." This project provided opportunities for the youth to learn about static electricity, as well as current electricity, while making wearable items that light up with battery power.

"By showcasing science in a non-formal and interactive way, and allowing youth to think outside the box, we encourage scientific exploration that may not occur in the classroom," stated Linda McLean, Director for Colville Reservation WSU Extension.

The year 2017 marks the tenth year that 4-H NYSD has been in existence. We are proud to say that Colville Reservation WSU Extension 4-H is the only 4-H program in the state of Washington that has participated in all 10 experiments. This means that we have been providing quality, fun, hands-on science exploration to Colville Reservation youth for the past 10 years!

Thank you to AVISTA for providing the science kits for the experiment. AVISTA Foundation has contributed to 4-H Science education since 2011. AVISTA continues to support the 4-H mission by helping youth to grow an interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) related fields of study.

We are happy to have actively and positively contributed to 10 years of growing curious minds!

If you would like more information about 4-H Positive Youth Development or other Extension programs, please contact Linda McLean, Colville Reservation Extension Director, (509) 634-2305 or ljmclean@wsu.edu or the Ferry County Extension office at, (509) 775-5225 ext. 1116 or the Okanogan County Extension office (509) 422-7245. Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.