Hands-On Experience Program at Fernbank
The DeKalb County School District has multiple ways to find rigor in student learning while also making it fun. Many schools are STEM or STEAM certified, magnets for high achievers, language immersion or International Baccalaureate programs. The Tucker Cluster of schools all participate in one way or another. All seven schools are either STEM certified or integrated IB programs, offer robust gifted programs and Tucker High School has the prestigious International Baccalaureate Diploma. In addition to these opportunities at their zoned schools, Tucker ninth grade students take part in a hands-on experience program at Fernbank Science Center called Scientific Tools and Techniques.
“Scientific Tools and Techniques (STT) is a challenging, fast-paced, one-semester program designed to familiarize ninth grade students with the tools and techniques of scientific inquiry,” STT Program Coordinator Vashonda Davis said. “STT students are involved in a rigorous science curriculum and take an array of life and environmental science modules taught by instructors who are field specialists. Classes are held in our planetarium, observatory, greenhouse, and laboratories with state-of-the-art scientific instruments. In one semester, students take two accelerated high school science courses: STT Biology and STT Environmental Science.”
Since the program started over 40 years ago, it has provided a science educational experience not offered in the average high school classroom. Hands-on laboratory experiments, field experiences, working with live animals, utilizing 21st Century technology used at higher educational institutions, observing chemical reactions, flying drones and field trips are all part of the program and what makes for the fun in the program and creates the huge draw for science-minded students. Applications are accepted during the spring semester of the eighth-grade year and with recommendation from the student’s science teacher. Apart from the science and technology exposure for students, students will have the opportunity to work with a diverse crowd of classmates all throughout the county.
“For many students his is the first time they’ve been challenged to work with someone outside of their normal friend group,” Davis said. “In the workforce scientists (and other professionals) often collaborate with colleagues from different backgrounds and cultures. Learning to work with diverse peers during high school prepares students for future teamwork in the workplace.”
All registered ninth graders are eligible to apply to the STT program, with the exception of magnet school students, and there are some metrics to meet. Selection criteria are based on grades, teacher recommendations and the student’s interest in science. Once accepted into the program, the students go to the Fernbank Science Center in the morning and then return to their zoned high school for their core courses.
Davis said there are many alumni who came through the STT program who have successful careers in the field of science. Davis is glad to be part of a program that impacts so many students.
“As the STT Program Coordinator I enjoy playing a crucial role in creating inclusive and equitable learning environments that contribute to students' academic success, personal growth, and preparation for a diverse and interconnected world,” Davis said. “The scientific and cultural exposure of the STT program has the potential to change the trajectory of a student’s life and I am very proud to be a part of their journey.”
