By Jasmine Franklin
Ponoka Elementary School has been chosen one of 10 schools in Western Canada to receive a $1,000 grant from the Petroleum Services Association of Canada (PSAC).
The grant money, given to Friends of PES Fundraising Society, will go toward a “Science in Motion” project that allows students to learn their science curriculas an interactive way with experiments.
“This will really bring to life the science kids are studying,” said principal Leslie Crawford. “Each grade has chosen a different unit to cover for the event.”
“Science in Motion” will include experiments, demonstrations, and hands-on learning. Lois Spate, assistant principal, said Grade 3 students will learn the rocks and minerals unit through the “Science in Motion” demonstration “Gravel, Grit, and Grime” where student will examine different rocks. Kindergarten students will transform into bubbleologists with “Bubble Bubble” to create a bubble masterpiece, and Grade 4 students will become engineers with “Thrill Rides” that allow students to construct and design roller coasters.
Telus Science will come into the school for five days from Oct. 6 to 8, and Oct. 14 and 15, when children will learn science in a different environment.
A parent sample presentation, “Loonie for Science,” will take place Oct. 14. The community is invited to see an hour of science beginning at 6:30 p.m with the doors opening at 6 p.m. The presentation will include the use of liquid nitrogen in different experiments and will cost $1 per person to help cover the costs not covered by the grant.
The presentation also includes the chance to win a science draw and packages from Tupperware valued at $150.
The grant is provided through the PSAC Education Fund — a fund that has invested $90,000 since it was established more than 10 years ago. Schools wanting to enhance their science, math, and technology learning opportunities must apply with a proposal for grant funding.
This year, the fund is giving $20,000 to 10 schools from small communities in Western Canada, along with 10 scholarships to 10 students across the country.
“The petroleum services industry is committed to encouraging learning in the sciences for future workface,” said Rob Gray, PSAC manager of communications and relations. “Support through the PSAC Education Fund is a visible and tangible way we can help future leaders.”
PSAC is a national trade association that represents the service and supplies manufacturing sectors within the upstream petroleum industry.
With files from Karie Ackermann