A word commonly used to describe high schoolers is “Apathetic.” It’s a label often unfairly placed on students seen tucked behind phone screens, seemingly checked out from the world around them. But Goddard High School science teacher Abbie Griffith asked a different question: “Do we provide students a chance to connect? Do we help them see the value they bring to others?
With the help of an Innovative Teacher Grant from the Goddard Education Foundation (GEF), two Freshman Physical Science classes recently traded their desks for “mobile science stations” at Dove Estates, a local senior living facility. Their mission? To host a hands-on science fair for residents.
This grant provided the specialized, durable supplies needed to take science on the road. From inertia hats to homemade lava lamps, these Freshman students transitioned from learners to experts. Students not only learned the content and science behind each activity, but they also prepared the presentations, introduced the activities, and explained the science all with the hope of creating special moments for both generations.
“My students have so much to offer and just don’t realize it yet because they don’t have enough opportunities to shine,” says Griffith. By teaching others, their own understanding of science deepens, but more importantly, they experience the “feel-good” power of serving others.”
The impact was immediate for both the students and the residents. For the seniors, it was a day of discovery and youthful energy; for the students, it was a lesson in civic responsibility that no textbook could provide.
Mason Wright, a Freshman student in Mrs. Griffith’s class reflected on his experience,
“This was an awesome opportunity for me. I love it when I can take just 5 seconds out of my day and make someone smile for me. Getting to work with these residents and teaching them something, and even getting to hear about their school stories was truly a blast! If I could be known for something, I would want it to be for always having a smile on my face. Being able to take time out of our school day and teach them tiny experiments that they have never seen before is heartwarming. This had a super positive impact on me because it shows something so tiny to us can be so big and meaningful to someone else, and I am just so thankful that I got to have that impact on them and make their day just a tiny bit better!”
By investing in this project, the GEF is helping turn “apathy” into “action,” proving that the best way to support a student’s academic growth is to empower them to serve their community.
Students left Dove Estates with more than just scientific data, they left with the confidence that comes from knowing they made someone else’s day a little brighter. This project proves that the best way to support a student’s academic growth is to empower them to serve their community.
The success of this project would not be possible without the generous support of the GEF and its donors. Your investment did more than purchase supplies; it provided a bridge between generations. By supporting Innovative Teacher Grants like this one, you ensure that Goddard students don’t just learn about the world but how to change it for the better. Thank you for believing in our teachers and empowering our students to lead.