Science Comes Alive at Middle School Family Science Night

Science and creativity were on full display at the May 1 Middle School Family Science Night, where students enthusiastically shared their passion for discovery with the entire community.

Sixth grader Sophie Haghiri presented a project on Oobleck, the fascinating substance that behaves as both a solid and a liquid. She explained that she “learned a lot about matter” and chose the project because it was fun. Judging by the crowd of students eagerly engaging with her experiment, she was absolutely right.

Rocky Keating and Payton Bauer, also in sixth grade, were part of the team “Glow with the Flow,” which demonstrated how to create homemade lava lamps using oil, water, food coloring and antacid. By combining these ingredients, they produced a colorful, bubbling display that captivated onlookers. The team shared that they “love the science of it” and, after learning about the chemical reactions involved, wanted to “make it their own and make it fun for kids and adults.” Their exhibit proved that everyone loves a lava lamp.

Seventh graders Arlan Smith, Penn Kessler and Spencer Mucheru and sixth grader Jax Byrd collaborated on a project called “Ocean Symphony.” Intrigued by echolocation, they explored how sound travels differently through saltwater compared to freshwater. Their inventive and engaging display brought the concept to life, and their enthusiasm was truly contagious.

Additional standout presentations included “Bippity Boppity Biomes,” “What the Cell is Going On?” and “Magnetic Mayhem,” each showcasing creativity and scientific curiosity.

Sienna Diez Barroso and Sophia Guttentag, high school juniors who fondly remember their own experiences with Science Night, spoke with attendees about T.R.E.E.A.M.S. and the club they founded, “One Health.” Through their presentation, they encouraged middle school students to think about environmental stewardship and consider how their choices can positively impact both the planet and their own well-being.