When people ask me, “CJ, what do you do for Liberty Science Center?” the answer is pretty complicated. From developing summer camps, presenting Live Science programs, working afterschool and community events, to representing Liberty Science Center at numerous conventions throughout the state, it’s safe to say I’m always on my feet.
In addition to these tasks, I also present Traveling Science Programs, where I go to schools and teach students about different facets of science. These programs are meticulously designed to meet the latest in Next Generation Science Standards, all while being fun and memorable.
I, like many of my colleagues, have presented hundreds of these Traveling Science Programs, but every once in a while, we receive some very touching feedback!
Recently, my colleague Beni and I went to Old Turnpike School in Califon, NJ to present a Traveling Science Program called “Swell Cells.” “Swell Cells,” as you may have guessed, is all about cells! The students got to build their own cells, including brain cells, and used electricity to simulate real electrochemical signaling in our bodies. They even had the chance to see a real heart and brain.
The programs were over before we knew it, and Beni and I retreated back to Liberty Science Center to prepare for the upcoming Traveling Science Programs in the days ahead. Another job well done.
A week later, Beni and I walked into my office at the Science Center and saw an envelope on my desk with many, many thank you notes from the students. This really made our day! As we sat down to read the notes, we were taken back by how well the students enjoyed the program.
“It was really cool when you showed us the sheep heart… it was also kinda gross… but still cool!” wrote one student.
“I was very interested when we used electricity with our brain cell models. The models were a great way to show us what they looked like!” wrote another.
Beni and I planted a seed that day, and with the right environment, it will grow into something that the whole world could benefit from in the future. Thank you to the teachers, staff and students at Old Turnpike School for the thank you notes and creating the environment that will yield success for the students for years to come!
CJ Donaghue is a STEM educator at Liberty Science Center. Behind-the-STEM is a blog series that takes you behind-the-scenes of our STEM programs at Liberty Science Center. Learn more about LSC’s Traveling Science Programs.